„Told him clearly…“: Kompany reveals piquant Goretzka conversation | OneFootball

The future of Leon Goretzka at FC Bayern Munich has been a sensitive topic for weeks. Now coach Vincent Kompany has spoken openly about an internal discussion with the midfielder. His statements provide a rare insight into the Bayern coach’s clear lines.

Shortly after his arrival in Munich, Vincent Kompany sought a personal conversation with Leon Goretzka. The Belgian made it unmistakably clear how difficult the midfielder’s sporting prospects would be under his leadership. „I had to speak to Leon at the beginning and we made it clear to him 18 months ago that there was no place for him at Bayern,“ Kompany explained on Sky ahead of the 2-2 draw in the Bundesliga match at Hamburger SV.

Despite these clear words, Goretzka did not find himself permanently sidelined. In the first half of the 2024/25 season, the 30-year-old worked his way back into the team step by step and played a leading role again at times. During this phase, he consciously decided against a transfer, although he had several options open to him in the winter.

Kompany: „I expect him to continue in this role“

photo: Getty Images

After the end of the transfer period, there was a further exchange between the coach and player. „Then the transfer period was over at some point, we spoke and then everything was back to square one,“ said Kompany, describing the situation. Goretzka always behaved professionally even in difficult phases and continued to work, even when he was not considered.

The Bayern coach also emphasized the value of this development for the entire team. „And he always fought, even when he wasn’t playing. Ultimately, it was a positive story, also for the team,“ said Kompany. He particularly emphasized that Goretzka had shown „that you can be there in important moments, even if you’re at the back at the beginning“.

This expectation has not changed to this day. „I still expect this role from him now,“ the coach made clear. At the same time, it has long been known that Goretzka’s contract will expire in the summer and the midfielder will leave the record champions after eight years. Discussions about this have recently intensified internally, while the player’s focus is increasingly turning to his next station.