Javier Fernández was considered one of the most promising talents in central midfield at FC Bayern. But instead of the breakthrough he had hoped for with the first team, the Spaniard faced months of injury woes. Now, the 19-year-old has spoken in detail for the first time about this difficult phase—and reveals how the record champions supported him through it.
Last summer, under Vincent Kompany, Fernández was allowed to train regularly with the Bayern pros for the first time. Alongside stars like Harry Kane, Joshua Kimmich, and Jamal Musiala, the midfielder worked toward his big dream: making his debut for the German record champions.
But the next step in his career remained out of reach for the time being. Instead, a long period of suffering began, pushing the Spaniard to his physical and mental limits.
“I was constantly injured for a year.”
In an interview with SPORT1, Fernández candidly reflected on the most difficult phase of his career so far. “It was, of course, a very tough time. Every player hates being in that kind of situation. I suffered one injury after another,” explained the 19-year-old.
After initially fighting his way back from an ankle injury, the next setback struck shortly before his comeback. A severe meniscus injury required another surgery.
“I was actually injured for a full year. It was a really tough time, but it also helped me grow as a player,” Fernández continued.
Despite those difficult months, the Spaniard never lost faith in his home club. On the contrary: FC Bayern stood by him closely throughout his entire rehabilitation phase.
“We were always in touch. They helped me a lot—for example, with arranging for my knee surgery to be performed in Spain. But even afterward, during rehab, they were always there for me, and I’m very grateful for that,” the midfielder reported.
Klose gives the Bayern prospect new confidence
In January 2026, Fernández extended his contract with FC Bayern through 2028 and then moved to 1. FC Nürnberg on loan. There, under coach Miroslav Klose, he finally regained regular playing time. Eight second-division appearances—five of them in the starting lineup—made it clear why the Franconians extended the loan for another season.
Klose also plays an important role in his development. “He didn’t play in my position, but he can teach me a lot through his experience,” Fernández explained.
Despite his loan stint, the youngster continues to maintain close contact with Munich. “There are staff members who look after the loaned players. They often call me or come to watch our games. They try to help me so that I can develop as best as possible.”
For the new season, Fernández has set himself one main goal: to stay injury-free. “The most important thing is that I stay fit. I want to keep developing, give my best in every game, and show what I’m capable of,” the Spaniard emphasized.
Whether his long-term future lies with 1. FC Nürnberg or back at FC Bayern will likely depend on his development in the coming months. In any case, the talented young player is determined to finally make headlines again with his performances on the field after his nightmare year.