- Goretzka experiences frustration within the "collective" – Kane's perspective
The exhilarating Supercup exhibition from title-seeking Leverkusen once more highlighted that the resurgence of Bayern Munich at the peak, under Vincent Kompany, isn't a guaranteed eventuality. The fresh Munich mentor was content with his successful league debut over the weekend in the initial round of the DFB-Pokal against SSV Ulm. "4:0 is satisfactory, now we press on. It's crucial that we display the right vigor. That's the crux, it has to be there," expressed the 38-year-old.
Over a decade since the last Supercup without Bayern's participation, Leverkusen doubled champions celebrated the subsequent trophy 24 hours later after enduring a lengthy period with a man less in the penalty shootout against VfB Stuttgart. "We must always honor what the teams accomplished the previous season. Last season, Leverkusen emerged victorious and Stuttgart came second, but now it begins anew," remarked Kompany during the Ulm match. "We wish to triumph in every game, we must display this on the pitch."
Kane: Prepared for Bundesliga opening
The soon-to-be 35-year-old seasoned Thomas Müller played a vital role in Vincent Kompany's triumphant introduction as coach of the dethroned German football series champions with early goals (12th/15th minute). Kingsley Coman and substitute Harry Kane in his debut in the DFB-Pokal added to the tally for the Munich team, who last competed in the Berlin cup final in 2020. "Now we're all set for the Bundesliga commencement next weekend," asserted Kane.
Whether Leon Goretzka will still be present for Munich's league opener against VfL Wolfsburg the following weekend remains uncertain. The 29-year-old transfer prospect, spotted during training over the weekend, was absent from the Ulm squad. "What transpires in the forthcoming days and weeks or whenever will reveal itself then. However, Leon is one of us. He demonstrates as a teammate the significance we hold for him. That's reciprocal," conveyed Müller. "He's in a challenging position right now, but he's training exceptionally well."
Suggestions of separation
Goretzka is experiencing a tricky career phase. After the midfielder failed to participate in the home EURO, all signs now point to his departure from Bayern Munich. "At present, there are no substantial discussions regarding inquiries," expressed sports director Christoph Freund, "but indeed, numerous parties are interested in Leon Goretzka because he is merely a top-notch player."
Goretzka's contract expires on June 30, 2026. With the signing of the Portuguese João Palhinha, the midfield has become more congested, and Goretzka was not included in the starting lineup against the second division novice. He might depart like Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui this summer. Bayern would then receive a hefty transfer fee and free themselves of a high-paid star from the payroll. The club had decided to bring in new personnel accents following the trophyless season - and not all players can be maintained.
Eberl: We don't have a printing press for money
"We don't have a printing press for money. We must examine everything and ensure it fits," stated sports director Max Eberl when inquired about a transfer of de Ligt to Manchester United. The calculation with Goretzka, purportedly in high regard by SSC Napoli and Atlético Madrid, is likely to follow a similar pattern. "We desire to be clear with the players," said Kompany. "We accomplish this within our family, but we don't need to communicate this outside."
A week before the Bundesliga kick-off with VfL Wolfsburg, teammates express eagerness to see how things will unfold with Goretzka. "In the end, that's not my decision. As a player, I truly enjoy playing alongside Leon. I feel a touch sorry for him," expressed Joshua Kimmich, who paired with Aleksandar Pavlovic in the central midfield position in Ulm. "But I'm not the one making that decision, that's for the coach and the club. And I'm unaware of the ongoing discussions."
The future of Leon Goretzka's stay at Bayern Munich is uncertain, with numerous parties showing interest in the top-tier midfielder. In a week, Bayern will kick off the Bundesliga against VfL Wolfsburg, and the team is eager to see how Goretzza's situation will unfold.
The success of Bayern Munich under Vincent Kompany's leadership is not a guaranteed future eventuality, but the team is determined to triumph in every game, as Harry Kane expressed, setting their sights on the Bundesliga commencement next weekend.
