Eberl clarifies Bayern contract calls as Vušković links played down | OneFootball

Bayern have taken several decisive steps regarding key members of the squad. Serge Gnabry has extended his contract until 2028, while Leon Goretzka is set to leave the club at the end of the season upon the expiry of his deal. An extension for Dayot Upamecano, meanwhile, is also progressing positively.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of Sunday’s clash with Hoffenheim, Max Eberl explained the reasoning behind the contrasting outcomes for Gnabry and Goretzka:

“These are squad-related decisions. They are the same age and arrived at the same time. We had to make decisions regarding their positions. We have very strong personnel in midfield. We had very open and transparent discussions with Leon. Then we agreed that we would part ways in the summer.”

Eberl also provided an update on Upamecano’s contract situation, expressing confidence that an agreement is close:

“We're close. We're on a very, very good path and will be delighted when we can finally announce it.”

Another player linked with Bayern in recent weeks is on-loan HSV centre-back Luka Vušković, who has impressed in the Bundesliga during his loan spell from Tottenham Hotspur. However, Eberl insisted that a move for the 18-year-old is not currently a priority, despite acknowledging his talent:

“We want to focus on the contracts within our own squad first, then we'll have a high-quality defense ," Eberl clarified. “That doesn't mean Vušković isn't a good player. But Bayern also has very good center-backs in Jonathan Tah, Upa, and Min-jae – and we also have Itō and Stani, who can play there. So we can't just sign every good player who's recommended to us.”

Eberl also played down squad depth concerns following Sacha Boey’s departure to Galatasaray, reiterating his confidence in Bayern’s defensive options. Head coach Vincent Kompany echoed that sentiment:

“We have Laimer and Stanišić, who can play at right-back, and we now have several players available on the left side as well. That's why we made this decision regarding Sacha."

Bayern currently sit six points clear at the top of the Bundesliga table, with third-placed Hoffenheim visiting the Allianz Arena on Sunday in what promises to be a significant test.