In football, narratives change fast. One moment you’re indispensable, the next you’re deemed surplus. Leon Goretzka knows this better than most. Once the engine of Bayern Munich’s midfield, Goretzka found himself on the fringes—unwanted, doubted, nearly discarded. Yet here he is, not only back in the squad but thriving under Vincent Kompany, proving that resilience is still one of football's most underrated traits.
The Fall: Goretzka's Bayern Exit Almost Became Reality
In the summer of 2023, things looked bleak. Goretzka was reportedly told by Bayern that he was free to find a new club. His form had dipped, injuries haunted his rhythm, and younger players were being favored. Goretzka, still just 28, seemed destined for an early Bayern exit.
Even the German national team seemed to move on. He was dropped from the squad ahead of UEFA Euro 2024, a painful blow for a player once considered the heartbeat of Die Mannschaft's midfield.
Goretzka later admitted in an interview: "It felt like the end. I was preparing mentally to leave." But endings, as it turns out, can also be rebirths.
The Grind: A Personal and Physical Rebuild
Instead of sulking, Goretzka went to work. He revamped his training routine, focused on his diet, and worked with mental coaches to rediscover his hunger and focus. The change wasn’t instant, but it was deliberate. He showed up at preseason under new manager Vincent Kompany with renewed determination and elite fitness levels.
Kompany, known for his appreciation of work ethic and leadership, took notice.
The Rise: Becoming a Regular Again
Goretzka started the 2024/25 season not as a star but as a squad player. However, by the mid-season mark, he had become undroppable. His ability to shield the backline, break opposition lines, and carry the ball under pressure reminded fans and pundits alike why Bayern signed him in the first place.
Bundesliga 2024/25: 5 goals, 7 assists, 87% passing accuracy.
Champions League: 2 goals, 3 assists, 21 interceptions.
Tackles Won: 63 across all competitions.
These stats only tell part of the story. His leadership, his presence in the locker room, and his ability to lift the team in crunch moments have become invaluable to Bayern.
Redemption with Die Mannschaft
His club form caught the attention of Julian Nagelsmann, and Goretzka was recalled for the UEFA Euro 2024. Initially a bench option, he soon made his way into the starting XI, helping Germany reach the semi-finals. His display against England in the quarters, where he neutralized Jude Bellingham, was one of the tournament’s highlights.
He now looks set to play a pivotal role in Germany's campaign heading into the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Goretzka and Kompany: Mutual Respect, Tactical Fit
Vincent Kompany has built a dynamic, aggressive, and high-pressing Bayern team. And Goretzka fits this style like a glove. He’s not just a destroyer; he starts moves, makes late runs into the box, and brings tactical intelligence. Kompany has praised him in several pressers, calling him “a warrior who leads by example.”
The duo shares mutual admiration, and Kompany’s faith in Goretzka is fueling this renaissance.
Within the Squad: Trust Regained
Once considered a potential departure, Goretzka is now among the first names on the team sheet. His relationship with teammates has only grown stronger. Players like Joshua Kimmich and Jamal Musiala have spoken about how important Goretzka’s presence is in the locker room.
Club officials now view him as a crucial transitional figure between Bayern’s golden generation and its next era.
Looking Ahead: 2025/26 and Beyond
Goretzka is not just back—he's better. The 2025/26 season could see him lifting silverware again and leading both Bayern and Germany with quiet authority.
Can Bayern win the Champions League? With Goretzka anchoring the midfield, the dream looks alive.
Is he back for good? Judging by his attitude, form, and fitness, yes.
Final Thoughts: Why Goretzka's Story Matters
In an era of instant gratification, Leon Goretzka’s journey is a lesson in perseverance. He refused to be written off. He turned rejection into motivation. And now, he stands tall as one of the most crucial midfielders in European football.
For fans, his comeback is emotional. For Bayern, it's essential. And for aspiring footballers everywhere, it's inspirational.
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