Leon Goretzka put in a flawless display at the heart of Bayern Munich’s midfield this weekend.
The 25-year-old German was impressive in Bayern’s 4-2 victory of Bayer Leverkusen. Goretzka won the man of the match award, provided an assist and a goal and he appears to be excelling under Hansi Flick recently.
Leon Goretzka Finding Form
Goretzka-Inspired Victory
Bayern made the worst possible start against Leverkusen on Saturday. The hosts took the lead thanks to a Lucas Alario strike after nine minutes.
However, in typical unflinching style, Munich replied and Goretzka was the catalyst for the Bavarians.
The 25-year-old was eager to get on the ball and tried to open up Leverkusen’s defence. His inch-perfect cross from the edge of the area led to a disallowed goal after 23 minutes as Kingsley Coman was offside.
However, Goretzka demonstrated his talents after 27 minutes, winning the ball back in midfield, driving forward and threading a through ball for Coman to finish off for the equaliser.
Goretzka was then on the scoresheet himself just before half time. The midfielder linked up well with fellow countryman Thomas Muller with quick interplay. He then drove to the edge of the box and finished a low left-footed shot past Lucas Hradecky to put Munich ahead.
The 25-year-old also showed his defensive capabilities throughout the match, attempting the most tackles on the pitch (six).
Outstanding recent form
Goretzka’s midfield performance against Leverkusen was completed. But, the German international is beginning to show consistency for Hansi Flick’s side.
Despite irregular appearances at the Allianz Arena due to injuries and inconsistent form earlier in the season, Goretzka seems to have found his rhythm playing in a deeper central midfield role.
Flick used the German as an attacking midfielder and a right midfielder on occasion this season. But, Goretzka started the last five games in the deeper midfield role and contributed three assists and two goals for Bayern.
Joachim Löw impressed
Following his man of the match performance on Saturday, Goretzka earned the plaudits of Germany head coach Joachim Löw.
Speaking to German football magazine Kicker, Löw said of Goretzka: “His recent development, in particular, is very pleasing. Leon has achieved a very good position for Bayern München.”
“He recently told me on the phone that he feels better than ever before. He worked really hard during the corona period.
“His abilities are best suited for a central position, as a number 10 or a number 8. But he can also play at the number six position.
“He’s good at combining with his teammates, is very dynamic, has very good technique and good vision. What distinguishes him, in particular, is his ability to push forward and score goals. Leon knows that he can score with his right foot, left foot or with his head. That’s why I see him in a central position in the coming years.”
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