Leon Goretzka concluded his eight-year spell at Bayern Munich with a 3-0 victory over VfB Stuttgart in the DFB-Pokal final on Saturday evening. Playing at the Olympiastadion in Berlin, the midfielder helped secure the Bundesliga champion’s domestic double, adding to their league title win.
Despite the match representing his final appearance for the club, Goretzka emphasized his commitment to winning the trophy, stating it was “an important final” rather than a farewell match. He acknowledged the emotional support from the fans, expressing his happiness at receiving special recognition, but maintained his focus remained on the game itself.
The 31-year-old also commented on the vibrant atmosphere created by supporters of both Bayern and Stuttgart, acknowledging the contribution of both sets of fans to the occasion. He revealed a pre-match conversation with Harry Kane, urging the striker to perform, a challenge Kane met by scoring the opening goal.
Goretzka’s departure brings an end to a remarkably successful period in Munich, marked by an undefeated record in finals. He reminded his teammates of this statistic before the match, ensuring the streak remained intact. Having joined Bayern from Schalke in 2018, Goretzka became a key component of the midfield, contributing to numerous Bundesliga titles and cup wins.
The Germany international’s future remains unconfirmed, though speculation has linked him with potential moves to the Premier League and other top European leagues. His versatility and proven track record make him an attractive prospect for several clubs. Bayern will be looking to rebuild their midfield ahead of next season, with the departure of Goretzka adding to the changes within the squad. This victory provides a positive send-off for Goretzka and a strong foundation for Bayern as they prepare for future challenges.
