News Focus
- Leon Goretzka will depart Bayern Munich this summer after eight years at the Bundesliga club
- The Germany midfielder lifted the Bundesliga trophy during his final home appearance
- Captain Manuel Neuer handed the silverware to Goretzka after the 5-1 win over 1. FC Köln
- The 31-year-old described his connection with fans as his most treasured moment
- Goretzka faces one final clash for Bayern against VfB Stuttgart in the DFB-Pokal final
Bayern Munich gave Leon Goretzka a special farewell gift on Saturday. The club allowed the midfielder to lift the Bundesliga trophy during his last home match at the Allianz Arena.
Captain Manuel Neuer passed the silverware to his teammate after Bayern thrashed 1. FC Köln 5-1. This gesture marked the end of Goretzka’s eight-year journey with the Bavarian giants.
The 31-year-old centre midfielder will leave when his contract expires this summer. However, he values his time with the supporters more than raising the trophy.
“The moment with the south stand meant everything,” Goretzka told DPA. “I spoke directly with the fans. Their words of encouragement proved I belong to this family.”
The Germany international feels proud of his connection with the club. He joined Bayern in 2018 and has won multiple titles during his time in Munich.
One final challenge remains for Goretzka. He will face VfB Stuttgart in the DFB-Pokal final next Saturday before officially departing the Bundesliga champions.