Leon Goretzka is eager to get regular playing time as he is unhappy with his current substitute role at Bayern Munich.
Bayern Munich had to work hard on Sunday to continue their winning run in the Bundesliga. Augsburg were up for the Bavarian derby as they conceded few chances to Die Roten to Allianz Arena. However, Bayern did enough to win the game, courtesy of goals from Thomas Muller and Leon Goretzka.
The defending Bundesliga champions survived a late scare in the game as Augsburg had a goal ruled out due to offside. Die Roten went at the other end and scored the second goal to clinch the victory, going four points clear at the top of the league table.
It has been a common theme for Goretzka in the past few weeks. The German midfielder comes off the bench late in the game and ends up creating big chances. He finally took one on Sunday, scoring his third league goal of the season. (Stats courtesy- Whoscored)
The German international is happy about his form, but he is not satisfied by making an impact from the bench. Speaking to media on Sunday (via Kicker), Goretzka insisted that he is in good shape and wants more playing time at Bayern.
"“I am in top shape, in the best of my career. Of course, I’m not happy when I am not starting.”“You have to put your fist in your pocket, continue to work on yourself, that you keep the shape and offer yourself.”"
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After enjoying a fruitful debut season in Munich, Goretzka has endured a frustrating second season at the club. The German midfielder suffered an injury during the first international break, which kept him out for more than a month.
Goretzka came back strong and got an extended run in the first team before the winter break. In some games, he was also used in the pivot, partnering Joshua Kimmich. Things started changing for Goretzka after the winter break, as Thiago Alcantara returned to form. The Spaniard has formed a solid partnership with Kimmich, forcing Flick to leave out Goretzka on the bench.
The German midfielder will have to be patient for his chances. Goretzka is an important part of the squad as he provides goals from midfield. When Flick needs more robustness in midfield without compromising flair in attack, Goretzka comes into the picture.
Bayern Munich will have a week to rest now after playing four games in 14 days. The Bundesliga champions will face Hertha Berlin next weekend and then welcome Chelsea at Allianz Arena. With games coming thick and fast, there is nothing to be worried about Goretzka’s comments. He will get an ample amount of playing time before in the next two months.