Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann recently spoke candidly about the players he will potentially pick for the World Cup in the summer. Bayern Munich stars Aleksandar Pavlovic, Joshua Kimmich, and Leon Goretzka received significant praise from Nagelsmann. The Bayern trio is expected to be part of the squad travelling to the USA in the summer.
Goretzka specifically received a lot of backing from Nagelsmann. The former Bayern head coach effectively said that Goretzka is his first-choice midfielder for the World Cup. Despite not being a regular for Bayern, Nagelsmann is backing Goretzka to do well for Germany.
Vincent Kompany has used Goretzka as third choice midfield option in the current squad at Bayern. Kimmich and Pavlovic are ahead of him in the pecking order at the club level. For Germany, Pavlovic will pair with Goretzka in the center of the park. Kimmich will be utilized in the right-back position.
Goretzka delivered consistent performances for Germany during the qualifying phase of the World Cup. It is no surprise that he is the first-choice midfield option for Nagelsmann. While talking to Sky Sports this week (via GGFN), Goretzka admitted that Nagelsmann’s words will motivate him to do better on the pitch.
"I’ve played every game in the World Cup qualifiers and felt very comfortable in that position. I know exactly what Julian expects of me there, so [his endorsement] didn’t surprise me. Of course, I don’t interpret that as a automatic ticket [to the World Cup], but rather as motivation to carry on."Leon Goretzka on Nagelsmann's comments
Good performances at World Cup will improve Goretzka’s options in summer
Goretzka is set to leave Bayern in the summer on a free transfer. He is hoping to end his time in Munich on a strong note, as they are competing on all fronts and a treble win is a possibility.
A good end to the campaign with Die Roten and a strong World Cup will help Goretzka to attract offers from several clubs. He was approached by Atletico Madrid and Arsenal in January.
The German midfielder’s physical prowess makes him an ideal fit for the Premier League. There will be interest from other La Liga and Serie A clubs in Goretzka. His qualities and availability on a free transfer will make him one of the most sought-after players in the summer.
Goretzka delivered a fine performance against Borussia Monchengladbach on Friday. He replaced Pavlovic in the lineup as Vincent Kompany looked to rotate the team ahead of the Champions League clash against Atalanta on Tuesday. Goretzka is not expected to start against the Italian side, but his experience can come in handy later in the game.
Bayern will hope Goretzka comes up with vital contributions at the back end of the season, which can propel them to the treble. Germany and Julian Nagelsmann will hope for the same, as Goretzka will be in a good space coming to the World Cup after a successful season with Bayern.