Leon Goretzka has been one of the most prominent candidates to leave FC Bayern for weeks. Speculation about a premature departure in the winter has persisted – now Bayern CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen has taken a clear stance and taken the wind out of the sails for the time being
„We are also planning the second half of the season with Leon,“ Dreesen made clear in an interview with t-online. A statement with a signal effect. Despite the great interest from abroad – Atlético Madrid, FC Barcelona and Tottenham Hotspur have been mentioned time and again recently – the record champions have no intention of letting the 30-year-old go in the middle of the season. The squad is too thin, the second half of the season with the Bundesliga, Champions League and DFB Cup too demanding
Winter transfer off the table – Bayern focus on stability
Goretzka himself is said to have been open to a change of scenery recently, with more playing time, a clear sporting role and a view to the 2026 World Cup playing a key role. The DFB international is no longer a starter under Vincent Kompany, with the Belgian relying on Joshua Kimmich and Aleksandar Pavlovic in the big games. Nevertheless, the issue is off the table for the winter. Bayern want stability – and that includes an experienced player like Goretzka, even if he is no longer first choice in sporting terms
Dreesen’s statements are in line with the current line at Säbener Straße. Departures in the winter should remain the exception, especially for seasoned professionals. Goretzka is still highly regarded internally, is considered an important factor for the dressing room and brings international experience with him, which can be worth its weight in gold in a long second half of the season
Departure probably not until 2026 – Barcelona remains an option
In the long term, however, there are many indications that Goretzka will leave the club. The chapter at FC Bayern is likely to close in the summer of 2026 at the latest. A contract extension is considered almost impossible. While the midfielder would not be averse to staying in Munich, Bayern have long since adjusted their strategic direction
With Pavlovic and Tom Bischof, the next generation is already in place. Pavlovic has overtaken Goretzka in the internal hierarchy. The upheaval in midfield is underway – quietly but consistently
This opens up attractive prospects for Goretzka. As a transfer-free player with extensive international experience, he will be in high demand on the market. A move to Spain in particular is considered realistic. According to media reports, the 30-year-old is flirting with FC Barcelona – and a possible reunion with Hansi Flick, under whom he once won the treble
So the winter will bring clarity, the summer will bring the decision. Leon Goretzka is a fixture at FC Bayern for the time being – but the signs are still pointing to a departure.