Bayern Munich continues to extend an invitation to Leon Goretzka.
Leon Goretzka, once a significant player at FC Bayern, appears to be approaching the end of his tenure. Despite being overlooked recently, the club has allowed him the chance to leave. However, Goretzka shows no signs of leaving and desires to continue his journey in Munich.
As the game against Grasshopper Zurich drew to a close, with Goretzka being subbed off in the 62nd minute, a noticeable smile remained on his face as he exited the field. Subsequent discussions regarding his future in Munich ensued. Could Goretzka still secure a new opportunity in this challenging sporting climate?
His appearance as a central defender against the Swiss first division side is an encouraging sign. Displaying solid play, some fans even chanted his name in appreciation. Despite the uncertain situation at the club, Goretzka expresses no intention to depart from Munich. According to sources, the club's leaders share this sentiment, with Goretzka's contract extending until 2026.
"There's no intention to malign him"
Max Eberl, the club's sporting director, stood firm in his support for the 29-year-old Goretzka after the match: "We've never spoken negatively about Leon. Leon is a top-notch player. His contributions to FC Bayern have been remarkable." Eberl emphasized that Goretzka remains an integral member of the team: "We never criticized him. The suggestion was only made that the situation could be challenging. That's all."
Competition within professional football is common, as Eberl explained: "Professional sports and our performance-driven society frequently result in such situations."
In light of the injury to right-back Josip Stanisic, who will be absent for weeks due to a torn lateral collateral ligament, coach Vincent Kompany must reorganize the team before facing VfL Wolfsburg in the Bundesliga opener on August 28 (3:15 PM, DAZN and liveticker at ntv.de). This sudden vacancy could potentially benefit Goretzka.
"Bayern is open about his situation"
Eberl described the injury to Stanisic as a "disaster," given that he was slated for the right defensive side. The absence of Hiroki Ito, who remains injured, thrusts Joshua Kimmich back into consideration for the position and leaves the door open for Austrian all-rounder Konrad Laimer to fill in. The increased competition in the defensive midfield, as youngsters Aleksandar Pavlovic and new signing Joao Palhinha vie for a starting position, may eventually ease Goretzka's situation.
Recent intentions towards Goretzka from the club's leadership have become clear, with Kompany leaving him out of the squad for the cup match against SSV Ulm (4-0). Eberl assured: "Bayern does not maintain a B-team. If he stays, he will remain a full squad member." The directness of the club in addressing his predicament was also emphasized by Eberl: "Bayern discloses the facts openly. Then you can make informed decisions."
A new defender acquisition is highly unlikely at this time, due to the injuries. However, potential personnel adjustments may still be on the horizon, alongside Kingsley Coman's anticipated departure from the club. The Frenchman, also with a contract extending until 2027, has often been plagued by injury issues, and Paris Saint-Germain has reportedly expressed interest. The transfer window closes on August 30, leaving little time for changes before Munich faces Bayer Leverkusen in their title defense. With that in mind, Goretzka is poised to continue his journey with Munich.
Despite the speculation surrounding his future, FC Bayern Munich's sporting director Max Eberl reaffirmed Goretzka's importance to the team, stating, "We never criticized him. Leon is a top-notch player, and his contributions to FC Bayern have been remarkable."
Amidst injuries and transfer rumors, the absence of right-back Josip Stanisic presents an opportunity for Goretzka to potentially secure a new role within the squad, as coach Vincent Kompany seeks to reorganize the team before their Bundesliga opener against VfL Wolfsburg.
