“It gets on my nerves!”: Bayern star Pavlovic hits back at injury criticism | OneFootball

Aleksandar Pavlovic wants to finally draw a line. The 21-year-old midfielder of FC Bayern, currently at the DFB training camp in Herzogenaurach, has had enough of questions about his susceptibility to injuries. With energetic words, Pavlovic made it clear on Tuesday that he wants to put the issue behind him – showing that he has also matured mentally.

"It annoys me that this keeps being brought up," said the young player decisively. "I've put it behind me and left it in the past. I only look forward and do everything to stay injury-free."

Nagelsmann's Criticism Has Left an Impression

As recently as September, national coach Julian Nagelsmann did not include Pavlovic in the squad – despite his return from an orbital fracture. The reason: lack of match practice and missing physical consistency. Nagelsmann emphasized at the time: "He needs to be at a top physical level, he has been carrying a lot of things around."

Particularly striking was the comparison with Spain's super talent Lamine Yamal, who had reached 100 percent playing time in the previous season, while Pavlovic only managed 33 percent. Words that apparently had a lasting effect on the Bayern professional.

This season, however, Pavlovic presents himself as stable, appearing physically fit and mentally strong. Instead of talking about absences, he prefers to discuss ambitions – and they are clearly stated: "I actually always want to play," he declared at the Home Ground in Herzogenaurach.

Competition in the DFB Midfield

Photo: IMAGO

There is currently rare density in the German midfield. Alongside Joshua Kimmich and Leon Goretzka, Pavlovic is also competing with Angelo Stiller for playing minutes. Despite the strong competition, he views his chances positively: "I want to show myself and contribute my part," said the Bayern professional, who has recently established himself as an important rotation player under Vincent Kompany at the record champions.

Looking ahead to the upcoming international matches against Luxembourg (Friday) and Northern Ireland (Monday), Pavlovic demands full commitment: "Every international match is important – after the last two games, they are even more important." Two victories are essential to not jeopardize the World Cup ticket.

Mentality from FC Bayern

What Pavlovic has learned in Munich, he also wants to bring to the national team – especially the winning mentality of the record champions. "Of course, we try to take that with us," he said. After a perfect season start with FC Bayern, the 21-year-old knows what it takes: mental strength, focus, and team spirit.

With this attitude, Pavlovic not only wants to silence his critics but also become a key player in the national team. For him, one thing is certain: "I only look forward."

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.