Pavlovic is proud of his rise at Bayern: “A story straight out of a fairy tale” | OneFootball

At the age of just 21, Aleksandar Pavlovic has achieved what countless talented players on the Bayern campus dream of: a breakthrough with the professionals at FC Bayern Munich. The midfielder, who just a few years ago stood on the sidelines as a ball boy, is now a permanent fixture in the starting eleven – and has long since become a German international.

Pavlovic made his professional debut in the record champions‘ shirt almost two years ago. Thomas Tuchel introduced him for the first time in the 8:0 home win against Darmstadt 98. Just one week later, he scored his first goal in the top match against Borussia Dortmund – the start of a meteoric development.

His debut was followed by a professional contract, an invitation to the national team and an impressive role in Munich’s midfield. Only a tonsil operation prevented his participation in the 2024 European Championship at home.

Despite the setbacks, Pavlovic looks back on his career to date with satisfaction: „Yes, it’s straight out of a fairy tale. It doesn’t get any better than this. That’s how it feels,“ he said in an interview with ran.de.

An integral part under Kompany and Nagelsmann

photo: IMAGO

This season, Pavlovic is a mainstay at FC Bayern – especially in the top games. In the 2-1 win against Paris Saint-Germain, he impressed as a stable pacemaker alongside Joshua Kimmich. Julian Nagelsmann is also increasingly relying on the young midfielder in the DFB team: „I’m in a great mood and it’s just fun to play with the boys. Whether at Bayern or in the national team – I try to do my part to make sure we’re successful.“

Pavlovic is proud to have made the leap to the pros as a genuine home-grown talent – and now sees himself in the role of motivator for the next generation: „When the young players can look up to you, you feel a little bit validated yourself. I always used to admire the pros. It’s obviously something special when you know that you can motivate others.“

The 21-year-old regularly makes time to support the youngsters on campus: „I try to come to the games on campus as often as I can and support them. When a few boys train with us from time to time, I like to give them tips and talk to them.“

Pavlovic is emblematic of Bayern’s new approach: developing its own talent instead of signing expensive stars. His journey from the campus to the Allianz Arena is a beacon of hope for many young players – and a prime example for the club that patience and support pay off.