„Prime example“: Reif pays homage to Goretzka after Bayern farewell | OneFootball

Leon Goretzka played his last Bundesliga game for FC Bayern on Saturday – and once again received great respect from the soccer world. TV legend Marcel Reif in particular had remarkable words for the midfielder after the 5-1 win over 1 FC Köln

After eight years with the German record champions, Goretzka’s formative time in Munich comes to an end in the summer. Despite many ups and downs, the 31-year-old leaves FC Bayern with his head held high – and apparently with enormous recognition both inside and outside the club

His farewell at the weekend was made particularly emotional by a special scene directly after the championship ceremony. When captain Manuel Neuer was presented with the championship trophy by the DFL, he handed it directly to Goretzka. A gesture with great symbolic power

The two internationals share a long time together at FC Bayern – including numerous titles and difficult phases

For Marcel Reif, it was precisely this moment that was significant. „Neuer also knows why he did it, because he understands things within a club,“ explained the TV pundit in the BILD format Reif ist live. He continued: „Neuer also knows that Goretzka had an important influence.“

Reif describes Goretzka as a „prime example“

Above all, the midfielder’s handling of difficult situations obviously impresses Reif in particular. „Leon Goretzka can always be held up as a prime example for things in life, not just in soccer,“ explained the veteran commentator

Reif was alluding to the past few years in particular. Goretzka was repeatedly considered a candidate for sale at FC Bayern. He was repeatedly told internally that he was no longer the first choice in sporting terms. But instead of reacting publicly or causing unrest, the midfielder fought his way back time and again

„He was told openly that you’re no longer good enough for what we need,“ said Reif. The international’s reaction was all the more remarkable. „When someone carries on and fights on without causing a disturbance and without spreading bad vibes, that’s very positive,“ said Reif

Farewell not yet completely over

photo: Getty Images

In sporting terms, however, the FC Bayern chapter is not yet completely over for Goretzka. Next Saturday, the midfielder could crown his time in Munich with another title. The record champions will face VfB Stuttgart in the DFB Cup final

Only then will Goretzka look more closely at his future, with several clubs – including AC Milan in particular – still being considered as potential suitors

However, one thing already seems clear: Goretzka is leaving FC Bayern with great respect and high esteem within the club.