Ten Bayern professionals are currently on loan. An interim assessment shows for whom the change of scenery has paid off – and for whom not
FC Bayern has been using loan deals for years to develop talents, stabilize market values or intelligently outsource squad depth. But not every loan works out. At the halfway point of the season, it is worth taking a sober look at those professionals who are currently gaining match practice at home and abroad – with very different results
Established pillars and positive developments
Alexander Nübel is a prime example of how a loan can work. The goalkeeper has long since established himself as a leading player at VfB Stuttgart, taking on responsibility and giving the defence stability. Over 100 competitive matches, a runner-up finish in the championship and a cup win speak for themselves. In sporting terms, Nübel has reached a level that has also brought him back into the national team fold. However, the question remains as to his prospects beyond the summer – both at VfB and in Munich
Lovro Zvonarek has also taken a clear step forward. After a disappointing phase in Graz, the Croatian has returned to Grasshoppers Zurich. Regular appearances, confidence from the coach and a visible presence in the attacking play speak for a successful rehab season. For a player who was planned as a creative solution at FC Bayern, this is an important signal
Arijon Ibrahimovic’s performance has been similarly positive. In Heidenheim, the 20-year-old is getting exactly what he previously lacked: playing time, responsibility and Bundesliga toughness. Even if his goal rate still leaves room for improvement, his influence on the game is clearly visible. This is a valuable assessment for Bayern
Between a regular place and standstill
Joao Palhinha got off to a signal start at Tottenham, but lost ground recently. The Portuguese’s role fluctuates between key player and rotation option. For Spurs, the question increasingly arises as to whether the defensive stability justifies his price – especially as a permanent signing would be possible. For Bayern, Palhinha remains valuable in sporting terms, but difficult to classify strategically
Bryan Zaragoza has repeatedly shown his qualities in LaLiga, but has so far failed to get up to operating temperature consistently. Individual highlights stand alongside longer periods on the bench. The fact that Celta Vigo could be obliged to buy him nevertheless gives the loan a clear direction
Armindo Sieb and Maurice Krattenmacher are also in the grey area. Both are collecting minutes, both are close – but neither has been able to make a lasting impression. For young players at this stage of their development, that’s not a disaster, but it’s not a breakthrough either
When the plan doesn’t work out
The situation with Jonah Kusi-Asare is much more critical. The young Swede is practically non-existent at Fulham, hardly plays and stagnates. A premature return or a new loan club seems logical in order not to slow down his development any further
The situation of Daniel Peretz is similarly sobering. At HSV, there was no way around the number 1 for the goalkeeper right from the start. The consequence: Bayern and the player are seeking a new loan move, this time to Southampton – including a purchase option. A clear sign for Bayern that Peretz no longer plays a role in their long-term goalkeeper planning
The bottom line is that FC Bayern’s loan strategy brings light and shade. While some players increase their market value and mature in sporting terms, others falter. This is precisely why the record champions will have to take a close look in the summer – who has prospects and where it makes more sense to make a clear cut.