Leon Goretzka is Becoming a Reliable Option for Bayern Munich

Early Season Inconsistency

After a successful spell with Schalke, Goretzka arrived in Munich with high expectations. A slow start saw the talented German drop in and out of the starting lineup. Contributing two goals during the first half of the season, Goretzka’s inconsistency led to a change of approach from manager Niko Kovač. Realising Goretzka wasn’t ready to play a big role, Kovač relied on other options. This took the pressure off Goretzka, as James Rodriguez and Thomas Muller shouldered the load.

Making 14 Bundesliga appearances before the winter break, Goretzka performed well when given game time. Making solid contributions in the Bundesliga and Champions League, the German international maintained Kovač’s trust, leading to a successful new year for the 23-year-old.

New Year, New Goretzka

As the winter break ended, Bayern returned with one clear goal. Retaining their Bundesliga title is the club’s main target. The team sit six points behind league leaders Borussia Dortmund. As the team hopes to catch Dortmund, Kovač is looking for players to step up. Since returning, the team has seen several players step up, including Leon Goretzka.

Scoring three goals in two games to start the new year, Goretzka has been on fire. Settling into the team’s number ten role nicely, Goretzka has forced his way into the team. Becoming more reliable, game after game, Kovač now trusts Goretzka more than his other options, something nobody would’ve predicted last year. Imposing himself, Goretzka is playing with confidence as he becomes more impactful in a team that needs its young players to step up.

Future Role

One of the key roles in this Bayern team moving forward is the number ten role. Kovač has three quality options at his disposal, so difficult choices need to be made. Bayern fans have become increasingly unhappy at the lack of game time given to Rodriguez. The Colombian star is seen as a key player by the fans, but not by Kovač. Muller is also in the mix. The German international is still seen as a key contributor, despite his drop in form. Both Rodriguez and Muller are quality options, but as Kovač sticks with his in-form players, Goretzka looks set to retain his place.

When he arrived in Munich, Bayern was unsure if Goretzka was a number eight or a number ten. Trying to fit him into the team, Bayern appears to have finally discovered his best role. Known for being creative and scoring goals, Goretzka’s balance makes him a more reliable option in Munich moving forward.

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