Bayern Munich already feels like home to Leon Goretzka
Leon Goretkza has emerged as a key player for Bayern Munich over the past few months, regardless of where in the midfield he features.
Bayern Munich endured mixed fortunes in the first half of the 2018-19 season under a new manager. Niko Kovac started his tenure in excellent fashion, but his team lost its way two months into the season. The Croatian finally found a system and starting lineup that worked at the end of 2018, and since then the team has won six consecutive games in the league.
Leon Goretzka has emerged a key player for Kovac since Bayern’s upturn in form. The German midfielder’s latest impressive display came last weekend, when he scored twice against Hoffenheim as Bayern kicked off the Ruckrunde with a convincing win.
Goretzka admitted after the match (via Bundesliga.com) that he is pleased with the progress he has made at Bayern over the last six months. The former Schalke midfielder feels completely settled in Bavaria after just a half-season of play.
"“Overall, I think it’s gone even better than I would have thought. In the first half of the season, I had more defensive duties and played further back. I played in the number 10 role against Hoffenheim. It’s a position I enjoy and where the coach knows I can play.“I settled in very quickly at the club. I feel very good in the city too. I’ve definitely arrived.”"
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Bayern won the race for Goretzka’s signature last January. The Germany international signed on a free transfer after running down his contract at Schalke. He is an extremely versatile midfielder, and Kovac has used him in several midfield positions throughout the season. He formed an excellent midfield partnership with Joshua Kimmich last month, helping Bayern get back on track in the Bundesliga.
Goretzka insisted that he is enjoying this midfield role despite it diminishing some of his best attributes. Thiago Alcantara’s return to the first team has allowed Kovac to move Goretzka a bit further up the pitch. He caused havoc in the final third against Hoffenheim by making several darting and clever runs in the box. He may not be the most creative player, but he has a tremendous knack for scoring goals when he plays just behind the striker.
Lothar Matthaus also heaped praise on Goretzka in his column for Sky Germany earlier this week. The former Bayern star believes Goretzka serves as a good representation of where the club is heading when used at the 10. Matthaus praised his ability to be at the right place in the opponent’s box, much like fellow Bayern star Thomas Muller.
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Goretzka’s performance on Friday has given Kovac much to think about, as he has numerous players that can play behind Robert Lewandowski. There is going to be even more competition for places in midfield when Corentin Tolisso returns from injury, but Goretzka has made his case strong in the last few games by showing the qualities Bayern were well aware of when they signed him.