Curious move: Leon Goretzka announces his Bayern departure? | OneFootball

Leon Goretzka’s future at FC Bayern is more in doubt than ever. While the club is setting the course for other key players for the coming years, the 30-year-old himself is now sending out a clear signal

Leon Goretzka is currently in his eighth season at FC Bayern, but there are many indications that this summer could be his last in the German record champions‘ shirt. His contract expires in 2026, but unlike players such as Serge Gnabry or Dayot Upamecano, there are no indications of ongoing talks about an extension. There is a conspicuous silence at Säbener Straße – a strong indication that Goretzka no longer plays a central role in the long-term plans

Now the midfielder has added fuel to the fire himself. Goretzka deleted almost all pictures relating to FC Bayern from his official Instagram account. An action that has long been regarded as a silent but clear sign in professional soccer. Time and again, players have chosen precisely this path shortly before parting ways

While some fans are puzzled as to what’s behind the move, others see it as a clear indication that Goretzka has already finished the FC Bayern chapter inside

Reserve role and World Cup danger increase the pressure

In sporting terms, there is also a lot to be said for a departure. Goretzka has long since ceased to be a regular under coach Vincent Kompany. Although he has made 25 competitive appearances this season, he has only played the full distance in three of them. His role in the Champions League is particularly explosive: in five games, the former leading player has collected just 60 minutes of action. In the decisive phases, Goretzka is usually only on the bench

This situation is also tricky in view of the 2026 World Cup. As a supplementary player at FC Bayern, Goretzka runs the risk of falling behind in the competition for a place in the DFB squad. This is precisely why transfer ideas are gaining weight. Recently, reports have been circulating that Galatasaray and Fenerbahce Istanbul have set their sights on the midfielder. Clubs from Serie A and the Premier League are also said to be keeping a close eye on the situation

A move in the winter could offer Goretzka the chance to take on a leading role again and reposition himself in the sport.