Bayern Munich: Leon Goretzka relishing more competition in midfield
The midfield department at Bayern Munich has undergone significant changes this summer. The German Champions have parted ways with Marc Roca and Corentin Tolisso. They have filled the void left by them by signing Ryan Gravenberch from Ajax.
Gravenberch was attracting significant interest from various European clubs as he entered the final year of his contract at Ajax. The Dutch midfielder was convinced by the project at Die Roten and decided to reject other destinations. He was even approached by Manchester United at the last minute, but he opted for Bayern.
The Dutch midfielder has got a lot of senior football under his belt despite turning 20 in May. Gravenberch ideally operates in the number eight position in a more box-to-box role. He boasts a very good passing range, along with the knack for scoring goals makes him a very good profile to have in the current squad at Bayern.
Gravenberch would have certainly sought assurances over playing time before sealing a move to Bavaria. The Dutch midfielder will get a considerable amount of game time next season, which will also result in healthy competition for places in the midfield. While talking to SportBild this week, Leon Goretzka welcomed competition in midfield as he is excited about playing with Gravenberch.
"“I’m looking forward to welcoming him to our team. We have a very tight schedule this season. In order to be able to compete for all trophies, we need a big and top class squad.”"
Leon Goretzka has operated as number eight in most games over the past three seasons. The German midfielder has developed a solid partnership with Joshua Kimmich in the center of the park. He struggled with injuries and fitness last season, which highlighted the importance of having more depth in the midfield.
Gravenberch brings some essential qualities to the midfield that Goretka doesn’t offer. Goretzka may also play much deeper whenever he plays with Gravenberch in the center of the park. The intense competition will bring the best out of all midfielders and give welcome selection headache to Nagelsmann.
The former Ajax midfielder started training with his new teammates at Sabner Strasse last week. The Dutch international recovered from the injury that ended his season in May. One of the key things to watch out for during the pre-season tour will be the use of Gravenberch by Nagelsmann in the two friendly games.
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Meanwhile, Bayern is open to adding more quality in the midfield department. The Bavarian club is eager to sign Konrad Laimer from RB Leipzig. However, the deal to sign Laimer has stalled since Leipzig is not keen on selling him to Die Roten. This transfer could eventually take place later in the window.