Bayern Munich oversaw only one significant departure in the winter transfer window in the form of Sacha Boey. The French full-back left Bayern late in the window to seal a loan move to Galatasaray as he struggled for game time in Munich.
Leon Goretzka was one of the senior players who generated significant interest across Europe in January. The German midfielder had six months left on his contract midway through the season, making him an attractive signing for several clubs.
Atletico Madrid and Arsenal made late moves for Goretzka as they looked to strengthen their midfield. Meanwhile, there was also interest from Napoli in the German international. However, Bayern had no plans to part ways with Goretzka. The former Schalke midfielder also decided to stay in Bavaria until the end of the season.
While talking to the media after last weekend’s win against Freiburg (via iMiaSanMia), Goretzka revealed the reason behind staying at Bayern until the end of the season. The German midfielder is hoping to make history by helping Die Roten win another treble.
"In January, I made a conscious decision to stay here until the summer. I feel that anything really is possible this season. The right players are in the right place, with the right coach, at the right club. I‘m absolutely convinced that we can win everything this year – even though I know how difficult that is. But we’ll give it a try."Leon Goretzka
The record Bundesliga champions have decided to part ways with Goretzka at the end of the season. Die Roten announced Goretzka’s summer exit at the end of the winter transfer window. Goretzka has done well this season, but Bayern believe the time is right to part ways.
The German midfielder will not be short of options in the summer. A strong end to the season and a good World Cup with Germany will bring other clubs to the table for Goretzka. A move to a Premier League or La Liga giant will be an ideal scenario for the German midfielder.
Bayern are well-placed for a strong end to the season
After Tuesday’s 2-1 win in the first leg of the quarter-final against Real Madrid, Bayern have taken another big step towards having a special season. Semi-final beckons for them if they finish the job in the return leg at Allianz Arena.
The Bavarian club is set to face Bayer Leverkusen in the semi-final of the DFB Pokal later this month. They have a lead of nine points at the top of the Bundesliga with six games left in the league. Three more wins will ensure Bayern retain the league.
It is not surprising to see Goretzka stay at Bayern since it is an opportunity for him to win his second treble in the Bavarian colours.