Bayern Munich had a clear strategy for the summer transfer window. They wanted to do early business and get their top targets through the door before the start of the pre-season tour. Bayern managed to execute this strategy with ease, as all their three summer signings were completed by mid-July.
In terms of departures, Bayern only wanted to part ways with players who had spent the previous campaign on loan. The defending Bundesliga champions had no plan to part ways with any of their key players.
Michael Olise attracted significant speculation in the summer as Real Madrid were keen on signing him. Bayern stood firm, and Olise ended up staying in Munich. The French forward is likely to be offered a new contract as he enjoys a terrific start to the new season.
Apart from Olise, Aleksandar Pavlovic was the other senior player who was subject to transfer interest. Manchester City were keen on signing Pavlovic as part of their midfield rebuild. The Premier League club wanted to spend close to €100 million on the German midfielder.
While talking to SportBild this week, Pavlovic admitted that it was a matter of pride that Manchester City showed interest in him. However, the decision to stay at Bayern was always the priority for him.
"First of all, it’s an honour when a top club like City comes calling. I grew up in Munich, I’ve spent my whole life here, and I’ve always played for FC Bayern. My family and friends live here, and for me, there’s nothing better than that. That’s why the decision wasn’t difficult."Aleksandar Pavlovic
Considering the recent verdict from an independent panel about the 115 charges against Manchester City, Pavlovic’s decision looks even better from a sporting point of view. The German midfielder has firmly established himself as the first-choice midfielder at Bayern under Vincent Kompany.
Pavlovic should be a role model for youth players at Bayern
Pavlovic is the type of player Bayern want to see coming through the academy. The German midfielder is technically solid and physically imposing in the center of the park. Most importantly, he is very passionate about playing for Bayern. He certainly has the qualities to be the future captain of the first team.
The German midfielder has also shown great resilience when it comes to dealing with setbacks for club and country in his short career. Pavlovic had a difficult World Cup with Germany, but he has managed to recover from the disappointment and start the season strongly with Bayern.
The 22-year-old has shown his commitment and determination to achieve success at Bayern by rejecting a move to Manchester City in the summer. It wouldn’t be a surprise to see Die Roten reward him with an improved contract sooner rather than later. He is set to be part of Bayern’s spine for several years.
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