Bayern Munich's Tom Bischof: 'I want to take the next step'
Tom Bischof is determined to play an even bigger first-team role after an impressive debut season at Bayern Munich.
Having joined Bayern from Bundesliga rivals Hoffenheim in the summer of 2025, Bischof made 39 appearances in all competitions in 2025/26, including 18 starts. A central midfielder by trade, the 21-year-old was frequently deployed at full-back by head coach Vincent Kompany, excelling in an unfamiliar role.
"I've often said that you come to Bayern because it's a dream and because you can win titles here. We did that really well as a team. We had such amazing togetherness last season and a really good season," Bischof told the club's official website.
"It was a very good season for me personally because I learned a lot, developed and played in different positions. That helps me in my career going forward. Now I hope it all gets even better and more titles come."
Watch: EAFC26 recreates a Tom Bischof special
In addition to the experience of winning Bundesliga and DFB Cup honours, Bischof will head into the 2026/27 season with a new shirt number. After wearing No.20 last term, the Germany U21 captain has inherited the No.8 jersey following Leon Goretzka's departure at the end of the 2025/26 campaign.
However, Bischof admitted he waited before requesting the number, wanting to see whether Aleksandar Pavlović would take it instead.
"He's been here longer, is a good friend of mine and I hold him in high esteem. I spoke to him and waited to see if he wanted to take the 8. But Pavlo is sticking with his number, so it's me taking over the No.8. I'm really happy about that. I asked for it and pretty quickly got the backing that I can have it.
"As a kid you obviously dream about the number 10. I used to always want that. Now I've moved a bit deeper and play more as a holding midfielder, so 8 is a good fit. I waited a while, out of respect for Leon. You don't ask for things like that beforehand."
With Joshua Kimmich and Pavlović expected to be Kompany's preferred midfield pairing this season, competition for places will be fierce. Bischof, though, is confident he can establish himself in the centre of the park.
"I want to take the next step now. Pavlo, Joshua Kimmich and I drive each other on in the centre. Everyone wants to play, which makes everyone better and helps the whole team. I definitely back myself in this role," he declared.
