Harry Kane is the undisputed number one striker at FC Bayern – and is likely to remain so for some time to come. But behind the English goalscorer, a talent is growing up on campus that is causing a stir internally. Vedad Turbic, just 15 years old, is producing figures that are astonishing even experienced youth coaches
The attacker recently made a real statement with the German U16s, scoring five goals in a clear victory against Japan and dominating the game almost single-handedly. In eight international matches, he has scored an impressive total of eleven goals and provided four assists, a rate that is not commonplace among DFB youth players – especially not at this age
His development at the German record champions is also progressing rapidly. Turbic is already playing for the U17s and has scored once in his first two appearances there. The fact that a 15-year-old is being used in this age group is a clear signal. At Säbener Straße, they have high hopes for him
Hope for a real nine from the club’s own youth ranks
Those responsible are aware of the strategic importance of such developments. CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen recently emphasized how important the club’s own talent pool is for the club’s future. The club is investing heavily in the campus and can only remain competitive in the long term if players from its own youth ranks regularly make the leap to the top
That would be a particular success in the centre-forward position. The campus has not yet produced a classic nine-man who could establish himself permanently in the professional squad. Kane is currently set, Nicolas Jackson is still under contract, but there are many indications that they could part ways in the summer. In terms of prospects, the focus is therefore inevitably on the next generation
Of course, Turbic is still a long way from being considered Kane’s successor. His physical development is not complete and the step into the professional game is still years away, but his goalscoring instinct, his presence in the penalty area and his confidence in finishing are regarded internally as exceptional for his age
Kane’s contract runs until 2027, and an extension seems likely. This gives FC Bayern time – time to carefully build up Turbic. There is a faint hope growing on campus that this time a real nine-man from their own ranks could actually mature.
