Leon Goretzka's 8-year spell at Bayern Munich has come to an end as he leaves the club for free, following his contract expiring at the end of the 25/26 season. The player has attracted clubs like Chicago Fire in the MLS as well as European sides
Should Bayern Munich have kept Leon Goretzka?
Former Bayern Munich midfielder Leon Goretzka is now a free agent with plenty of options as he seeks out a new club. Among those chasing his signature is an MLS club.
The German midfielder has assessed a move to the United States of America but prefers to stay in Europe, reports Fabrizio Romano. Leon Goretzka wants to be part of a European project.
Why did he not extend his contract?
Leon Goretzka experienced 8 years at the Bavarian club, winning 7 Bundesliga titles, 1 UEFA Champions League, 1 UEFA Super Cup, 3 DFB-Pokals, 1 FIFA Club World Cup, and 3 German Super Cups. Whilst he remains an incredibly decorated player, his performances saw him left out of favour by manager Vincent Kompany.
He started just 1 game in Bayern Munich’s Champions League campaign, a dead-rubber match as they were already 6-1 ahead on aggregate against Atalanta. In the two legs against Paris Saint-Germain, where Bayern were knocked out, Goretzka featured for just 11 minutes in the first leg.
The fans seem content with the developments regarding Goretzka’s future. Some are claiming he was declining and had no place in the future of this Bayern squad.
Having fallen out of favour with the manager and the fans, the news that Goretzka was leaving did not provide much shock value. Given his age and willingness to play competitive football, it seems that this was the best option.
IMAGN IMAGES via ReutersWhich MLS club wants Leon Goretzka?
According to reports, Leon Goretzka has admirers from Chicago Fire. They are really trying to convince the player to join.
The transfer itself seems highly unlikely given the Germans’ preference. However, it is possible that a deal could still happen, with the American club also pursuing a former teammate of Goretzka, Robert Lewandowski.
Which European clubs want Leon Goretzka?
Napoli were the strongest linked club to the midfielder prior to him becoming a free agent. However, it was reported that his demands may be too high for the Italian club to consider.
According to other reports, AC Milan is now looking to take on the German midfielder. A meeting was scheduled to take place at the beginning of the month, so it remains to be seen what happens next.
Leon Goretzka was reportedly offered a 5 million deal going up to 2029, with an option of extending to 2030. Maximiliano Allegri views Leon Goretzka as his ‘main target,’ suggests Nicolo Schira.
Author’s verdict
Leon Goretzka will move on as a hero for Bayern Munich as he played a huge role in the club’s treble during the 2020 campaign. However, as with any footballer, age catches up to you, and with Leon Goretzka, it’s the perfect time for him to leave the European giants.
A move to the MLS can provide more financial benefits for the player, but it seems his interests lie elsewhere. At 31 years old, he is far from considering retirement, so a move to another European club may well allow him to experience an exciting new chapter.
