Leon Goretzka comments on Julian Nagelsmann’s endorsement, speaks on life after Bayern Munich | OneFootball

After supplying a splendid assist on Bayern Munich’s opening goal last night, German national team midfielder Leon Goretzka has commented on the endorsement he received from Julian Nagelsmann. The German national team head coach – in an interview for the Monday print edition of Kicker Magazine – effectively declared one of Germany’s starting midfield positions Goretzka’s to lose.  

Leon Goretzka ‘not surprised’ by Nagelsmann’s endorsement

“I’ve played every game in the World Cup qualifiers and felt very comfortable in that position,” Goretzka told Sky Germany. “I know exactly what Julian expects of me there, so [his endorsement] didn’t surprise me. Of course, I don’t interpret that as a automatic ticket [to the World Cup], but rather as motivation to carry on.

“I had a special connection with him [Nagelsmann] when he was coaching in Munich,” Goretzka continued. “We traversed a difficult time during the [2024 German hosted] European Championship, during which we had several differences of opinion. I maintain some pride that we were able to work those out together.“

Goretzka on his ‘farewell tour’ at Bayern Munich

“One naturally wishes to repay the trust one receives,” the 31-year-old said of what will be his final few months with the German record champions. “One has to remind oneself to be grateful. Sometimes one forgets and treats it like it’s all a given. Today, I was sitting in my hotel room and had to remind myself to just enjoy this [match] today.

“It worked out well,” Goretzka continued. “That was one of my finer assists today. But, to be candid, he [Luis Diaz] finished that off superbly with his quality.“

Goretzka on his potential future destination

“The chance to play competitive football abroad is appealing,” Goretzka said of next professional station, adding in direct response to rumors linking him with Atletico Madrid, “I’m certainly not going to base my next move on what the weather is like there. I think we’ll work out something nice.“

GGFN | Peter Weis