Despite picking up more heat than the average Bayern Munich and German national team player, Leon Goretzka has been an influential player for both club and country. Bar his recent outings in center-back for Bayern, the Bochum-born player has enjoyed most of his success in the midfield, a position German national team manager Julian Nagelsmann prefers him in.
In a recent interview Goretzka explained exactly what he brings to the table for the national team as well as how he fits into the midfield.
”Off the ball, I have the classic duties of a double pivot,” explained the 30-year-old midfielder in an interview with RTL (as captured by @iMiaSanMia). “I try to bring a certain physicality and robustness to the game, which was important against Northern Ireland. When we get into the final third, I push forward a bit and try to occupy the number 10 position.”
While Aleksandar Pavlović continues to take minutes off Goretzka for Bayern and the German national team, the former FC Schalke 04 man’s skill set can still be utilized. Germany will certainly come face to face with opponents like Northern Ireland in the future where a more “physical” solution is needed. In that scenario, Goretzka still has a lot to offer.
The other advantage of having Goretzka and Pavlović for club and country, besides differing skill sets, is the ability to keep both players fresh throughout the season. Rotation can normally break form, but with the sheer amount of fixtures on Bayern and Germany’s roster, keeping both players fresh will be welcomed by both sides.
