Coincidence? At FC Bayern, I think not.
Leon Goretzka has been far from a mainstay for Vincent Kompany’s Bayern Munich side this season. But, the 31-year-old midfielder has still racked up a respectable 1,268 minutes across the Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal and UEFA Champions League, more than most fans expected and certainly more than most think he deserves—not bad for a player who was frozen out in August.
In stark contrast, since Goretzka announced his decision to leave in the Summer after an eight year spell with Die Rekordmeister, he has amassed a total of zero minutes of playing time. Less than most fans expected and certainly the exact amount most think he deserves.
When questioned by Bild about the coincidental timing of Goretzka’s lack of minutes, Bayern Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Jan-Christian Dreesen, insisted the topic presented “nothing to discuss”.
“The coach and all of us have spoken with Leon together, and Leon knows that we have several players in midfield, that we naturally also want to give the youngsters playing time – that was part of his very conscious decision [to stay],” said Dreesen (as captured by @iMiaSanMia). “Therefore, I don’t think there’s anything to discuss.”
Dreesen’s comments make it sound like Goretzka is happy to ride out his contract—along with the sizeable paycheck that comes with it. On the other hand, despite all the hate Goretzka continuously generates amongst Bayern fans, it would be hard to argue that he hasn’t behaved like a consummate professional throughout many a turbulent patch. Either way, in a Bayern Munich side too oft ravaged by injury, having an extra body in the midfield is welcome.
Category: General Sports
