Bayern Munich's Leon Goretzka reacts to Julian Nagelsmann's World Cup comments
Bayern Munich midfielder Leon Goretzka has responded to recent comments by Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann that he could play a key role at the 2026 World Cup.
Earlier this week, Nagelsmann said: “As things stand, despite Leon having had less playing time at Bayern, he will have a good chance of playing and taking on a similar role to the one he had in the World Cup qualifiers because he’s someone who gets into the penalty area, is strong in the air and brings real physical presence.”
Goretzka featured in all six of Germany's qualifiers for the tournament in the USA, Mexico and Canda, and played the full 90 minutes in four of them.
Watch: Nagelsmann on Germany's World Cup group
Following Bayern's 4-1 win over Borussia Mönchengladbach on Friday evening, in which Goretzka played from start to finish, Sky asked the 31-year-old for his thoughts on the matter.
"I definitely don't view it as him giving me a free pass, I see it as motivation," he said.
Watch: Highlights of Bayern's win against Gladbach
Goretzka and Nagelsmann have shared a special connection ever since the latter was head coach at Bayern from 2021-2023. And while there were some differences of opinion in the past, the two worked through them together. “I’m actually quite proud that we managed to clear that up between us,” the Bayern No.8 said.
Looking ahead to the World Cup, he now wants to repay the faith that has been shown in him. “I know exactly what Julian expects from me in this position.”
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