The "cursed" history of a switch
Leon Goretzka's rather "unsuccessful" number switch is one of the few examples in recent years when a Bayern player's individual performance declined after the change.
Serge Gnabry is another prime example. After changing to 7 from 22, Gnabry suffered a lot of injuries and could not sustain his world-class form in Bayern's sextuple season. It was only in the last season that fans could see a noticeable comeback in form from the German winger.
Jamal Musiala was absolutely monumental for Bayern Munich's success when he wore number 42. His brilliant performance earned him the number 10 jersey after Leroy Sane departed last year. Unfortunately, Musiala suffered a serious injury in the FIFA Club World Cup that sidelined him for the majority of last season. There is still a lot of work for him to do before he can return to form.
Kingsley Coman made the move to number 11 after the 2020/21 season, when he recorded 16 goal contributions in a personal record number of minutes played in the Bundesliga. However, he could not maintain the same level of productivity and availability over the next three seasons. Coman was decent when he played, but 17 injuries across that period did not help.
On a bright note, Joshua Kimmich's switch to number 6 was a massive success. He became one of the best midfielders in the world and one of Bayern's most consistent performers.
Whether the number switch "curse" would hit Bischof's development, only time will tell...
Bayern supporters will hope Tom Bischof follows Kimmich’s path rather than the cautionary tales. Possessing exceptional vision, technical composure in tight spaces, and rising tactical importance under Vincent Kompany, the 21-year-old has every tool required to make the number 8 shirt his own.
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