Form boost on farewell tour: Germany star repays World Cup trust

After Nagelsmann surprisingly left him out ahead of Euro 2024 on home soil, very few would likely have expected a Germany comeback under the same coach. And yet Goretzka went on to play a key role in the World Cup qualifiers.

He said he had already had "a special connection" with Nagelsmann during his time as coach in Munich, one that ultimately endured even through "a difficult period during the Euros, when we of course also had differing opinions." "I’m also somewhat proud that we cleared that up together," Goretzka said a few months ago.

Peaking at just the right time

Goretzka has steadily repaid the vote of confidence he received in March through Nagelsmann’s emphatic words, especially in recent weeks. Since the announcement of his departure from FC Bayern in January, the midfielder’s form has increasingly been on the rise. Most recently, he was even in the Bundesliga starting XI for six matches in a row and contributed to six goals in his last eight appearances.

So he is hitting top form again right on time for the major highlights of the season. At club level, but also with a view to the World Cup in just under five weeks, where the national team coach has earmarked an important role for him.

By then, Goretzka’s new employer is also expected to be decided. There appears to be no shortage of options. Bayern board member for sport Max Eberl recently confirmed as much to 'Bild': "It doesn’t surprise me that he has many offers, because he is available on a free transfer, a Germany international, and a very good player [...] His path will continue at a top European team."

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AC Milan and Juventus have recently been named as the hottest suitors. Last winter, Arsenal also failed with an offer on Deadline Day, and Atlético have likewise been credited with strong interest in Goretzka in the past. He himself appears open to an adventure abroad. He emphasized that when announcing his Bayern departure: "A move away would also be a step in my personal development. Getting to know something new would enrich my life as well."

And if there is still no decision on a new club by the start of the World Cup, Goretzka could use football’s biggest stage to attract even more potential employers. That situation has recently helped him produce top performances at club level too.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.