Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has claimed that it is "very bitter and sad" that Bastian Schweinsteiger has been shunned from the first team at Manchester United.
The German World Cup winner is believed to be training with the youth team after manager Jose Mourinho, who arrived at United in May, informed him that he would not be part of his plans.
After speculation about his future - involving reports that Juventus are keen on the midfielder - Schweinsteiger released a statement on social media insisting that he will not play for another European club.
When asked to comment on Schweinsteiger's situation, Neuer told reporters: "It's very bitter and sad. We know how important Bastian was for all his teams, no matter if it was Bayern or the national team.
"For me he was one of the best midfielders in the world and still is. So it's sad that the football world can't see him right now."
The 32-year-old left Bayern last year to join United for a reported £7m fee.
Danielle Joynson
