Bayern Munich: Leon Goretzka continues to show consistent growth
In the last three weeks, Bayern Munich clinched the Club World Cup but backed it up with two timid performances in the Bundesliga. They looked less assured in the center of the park as Joshua Kimmich was without his German partner Leon Goretzka.
Goretzka did play during the second half of the game against Eintracht Frankfurt when his team was chasing. He looked much fitter and ready to influence the game against Lazio. In the crucial away game in the Champions League, he helped the team to win the midfield battle and come back home with a healthy result. Goretzka also set up Jamal Musiala for the goal against the Italian club.
In the Bundesliga game against FC Koln, Goretzka was at his creative best. He was occupying good positions between the lines and helping Musiala in the number ten position. The German international set up three assists in the game. All three assists showed that Goretzka could play that magic pass when needed.
During the post-match interview, Hansi Flick heaped praise on Leon Goretzka. The German manager admitted that Goretzka was excellent and man of the match for three assists in the game. Even if he hadn’t got three assists, it was a very efficient display from Goretzka.
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When he arrived in Bavaria from Schalke, the main position for him was number ten, where he would contribute with goals. He used to arrive late in the box and scored important goals throughout the campaign. It was a remarkable debut season as he ended with nine goals and seven assists across all competitions. (Stats courtesy: Transfermarkt)
During his second and third seasons at the club, Goretzka has added more facets to his game and become a more versatile option in the midfield. His physical prowess helps him to consistently win duels and latch on to second balls. By improving his positional awareness, Goretzka can also play adequately in the number ten role.
Leon Goretzka has not sacrificed his goal-scoring threat to become a more complete midfielder, which makes his overall development even more impressive. Kimmich has been the MVP in the team, but Goretzka has managed to make the midfield more functional this season.
dark. Next. Player ratings from Bayern's convincing win against Koln
After bouts with coronavirus and injuries, Flick will be hoping that Goretzka remains fit for the rest of the campaign. Die Roten will need him at his best to retain the Bundesliga and Champions League titles this season.