- Goretzka has to fight: "High competition situation"
Leon Goretzka (29) has his work cut out for him at Bayern Munich. The German international, like Joshua Kimmich (29), now faces stiff competition in defensive midfield with the arrival of new signing Joao Palhinha (29). Goretzka missed Bayern's final pre-season test against Austrian Bundesliga side WSG Tirol due to hip impact injuries, while Kimmich was rested during the 3:0 win and watched from the sidelines in civilian clothes. Portuguese international Palhinha, however, made his starting debut and scored his first goal for the Munich side.
"Palhinha is settling in really well, he's a true professional. We're delighted to have him join us," said sporting director Christoph Freund. Palhinha, who joined Bayern this summer after a second attempt from Fulham reportedly for around €46 million, said, "It's always special when you score. I'm proud and enjoying my time here." He is expected to provide stability in Bayern's midfield.
Hamann thinks Goretzka departure is possible
Goretzka has been wearing the Bayern jersey for six years and has a contract until the summer of 2026. He doesn't seem to be planning a sudden departure, instead, he appears ready to fight for his place under new coach Vincent Kompany, just as he did last summer under predecessor Thomas Tuchel. "There's high competition in the squad, but Leon is giving his all. He's a true professional," said Freund, who was not selected by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann for the Euros.
Sky expert Dietmar Hamann thinks Goretzka's departure is possible. "He hasn't played well enough in the last three years to be considered indispensable. With Palhinha's transfer and Kimmich expected to play in the middle under Kompany, the signs point to a separation," said the former national player to the German Press Agency. "The big question is whether there's a market for him."
"Given the strengthening of Bayern Munich's midfield with Joao Palhinha and Joshua Kimmich's positional shift under Vincent Kompany, the Commission might consider implementing acts to adjust the team's strategic positions, such as Leon Goretzka's role."
"If Goretzka's market value is affected by his reduced playing time due to stiff competition and the club's evolving tactics, the Commission could potentially adopt rules to help protect the interests of high-performing players like him."
