While numerous current Bayern pros are in the spotlight at the 2026 World Cup, a former Munich talent has also made headlines. Nestory Irankunda got off to a perfect start in the tournament with Australia and could thus become a topic of discussion again at FC Bayern.
The World Cup traditionally offers the biggest stage in world soccer. For many players, it is the ideal opportunity to showcase themselves to an international audience and increase their market value.
Nestory Irankunda is currently seizing exactly this opportunity.
The former Bayern player led Australia to an important 2-0 victory over Turkey with his goal, immediately drawing attention at the start of the tournament.
In the Socceroos’ first group stage match, the 20-year-old started and impressively justified his coach’s faith in him.
With the score tied at 0-0, Australia quickly transitioned after winning the ball. Irankunda sprinted deep into the box and coolly finished the counterattack to give his team the lead. The goal ultimately paved the way for the crucial opening victory against Turkey.
For the attacking player, it was the perfect showcase on the world’s biggest soccer stage.
The path led via Munich to England
Irankunda transferred from Adelaide United to FC Bayern in the summer of 2024. The Munich club had secured the services of the top Australian talent early on and had high hopes for his development.
After an initial settling-in period, he was first loaned to Grasshoppers Zurich to gain playing experience at the European level. Subsequently, however, Bayern decided to sell him to the English club Watford FC. Around three million euros flowed into Munich at the time.
In England, the winger has recently shown positive development. Nine direct goal contributions in his first season demonstrate that he is on the right track.
Of particular interest from Munich’s perspective: FC Bayern secured a buyback option in the sale. As reported at the time, Bayern can bring Irankunda back for a fixed sum of around 4.5 to 5 million euros.
In light of current developments, this clause appears increasingly attractive.
Will Irankunda become a Bayern target?
Whether Munich is actually considering bringing the Australian back remains to be seen.
One thing is clear, however: If Irankunda confirms his form at the World Cup, his market value is likely to rise significantly.
That is precisely why the buyback option could be particularly interesting for Bayern. Even if the attacking player had no long-term prospects in the professional squad, the Munich club could benefit financially from bringing him back.
Numerous top clubs have successfully used this model in recent years. Players are bought back and then resold at a profit. Irankunda’s market value is already at eight million euros.
World Cup could cause market value to skyrocket
For Irankunda himself, however, the focus is currently solely on the World Cup.
The opening match against Turkey demonstrated the Australian’s potential. With his speed, dynamism, and finishing ability, he possesses exactly the qualities sought after at the international level.
Should Australia continue to spring surprises as the tournament progresses and Irankunda shine once again, the former Bayern player could be among the big winners of this World Cup.
And then, at Säbener Straße, they’ll likely be watching closely to see if the favorable buyback option might come back into play after all.