Bayern Munich goalkeeper Sven Ulreich has announced the tragic death of his six-year-old son following ‘long, serious illness.’
In a devastating statement on Friday, the 36-year-old revealed that his son Len, born in November 2018, passed away in June.
Ulreich, who has not played an official match since November 2024, wrote on Instagram: ‘It is with deep sadness that we would like to announce today that our son Len passed away a few weeks ago after a long, serious illness.
‘The decision to make this public now is incredibly difficult for us – however, it is an important step for us as a family to create clarity in our environment and also in the public eye.
‘Together with our daughter, we are now trying to find our way back to life step by step.
‘Special thanks go to our families, friends, and FC Bayern Munich for their discretion and great support over the past few months – that means a lot to us.
Bayern Munich goalkeeper Sven Ulreich has announced the tragic death of his six-year-old son following ‘long, serious illness’
The 36-year-old has not featured in an official match since November 2024 due to ‘personal reasons’
‘We ask the public and media representatives to be considerate and respect our privacy. We kindly ask you to refrain from further inquiries or statements. Lisa & Sven.’
In 2018, Ulreich said he wife Lisa were ‘grateful’ for their ‘wonderful gift’ as he announced Len’s birth just a day after enjoying victory in the Champions League with Bayern.
‘I went straight to the hospital for me,’ he wrote. ‘May I introduce: Len. We are overjoyed for the birth of our son and grateful for this wonderful gift.’
As Bayern’s back-up behind Manuel Neuer, Ulreich has made 103 appearances for the Bavarian giants. He has won the Bundesliga nine times, the DFB Cup three times, the DFL Supercup six times.
He has also lifted the Champions League and Uefa Super Cup.
Last week, he agreed a one-year extension with the side that will service to 10 years, either side of a 12-month stint with Hamburg.
‘Sven Ulreich is reliability personified: he delivers what he promises – in the truest sense of the word,’ said sporting director Max Eberl,
‘Characters like him are good for any team. We’re delighted he’ll be spending another season with us,’ Eberl added.
