Bischof reveals: Here’s how Kompany plans to use the Bayern youngster | OneFootball

FC Bayern has high hopes for Tom Bischof in the new season. Following Leon Goretzka’s departure, the 21-year-old is expected to take on a key role in central midfield moving forward. After the friendly win against Jeju SK, the youngster has now revealed how Vincent Kompany plans to use him.

While many World Cup participants are still on vacation or recovering from injuries through individualized training, Bischof is among the standouts of preseason. The former Hoffenheim player is getting plenty of playing time and using the opportunity to prove himself worthy of a starting spot.

“I know I’m slated to play in the six position.”

After the 2-1 win against Jeju SK, the 21-year-old spoke openly about his role under Vincent Kompany. “I know I’m slated to play as the ‘six,’ in the center. But the coach still knows that I’m open to anything,” Bischof explained.

He highlighted his versatility with a wink: “If he needs me on the left, the right, or in goal, I’m there.” He then added: “That’s what I did last year, too. I’m open to anything.”

With that, Bischof confirms that Kompany sees him primarily as a central midfielder going forward—precisely the position where additional playing time has become available following Leon Goretzka’s departure.

Competition in the midfield remains fierce

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Bischof already impressed with strong performances in his debut season. After his free transfer from TSG Hoffenheim, he played 38 competitive matches for the record champions and contributed three goals and three assists in the Bundesliga.

The German national team player demonstrated enormous flexibility. While he initially played regularly in central midfield, he repeatedly filled in as both a left and right fullback as the season progressed. Especially in the final stretch of last season, he was primarily deployed on the left side of defense.

That is likely to change again in the new season. With the signing of Nathaniel Brown and the return of Alphonso Davies, competition for the left-back spot has intensified significantly. As a result, Bischof is expected to play more frequently in his preferred position in the center of the field going forward.

There, he’ll compete for playing time with Joshua Kimmich, Aleksandar Pavlovic, and Bara Sapoko Ndiaye, who is expected to sign a permanent contract soon. However, the fact that Kompany has firmly designated him for this position should give the 21-year-old an extra boost as the preseason continues.