Dayot Upamecano’s future at FC Bayern remains uncertain. The 27-year-old centre-back’s contract expires at the end of the season – and so far there is little to suggest that it will be extended soon. While the club’s management is pushing for a quick decision, the Frenchman remains calm.
The Bayern bosses around Herbert Hainer, Christoph Freund and Max Eberl have been emphasizing for weeks that they absolutely want to keep Upamecano. The defender has developed into an absolute top performer under Vincent Kompany and is regarded as one of the most consistent defenders in Europe.
President Hainer recently even publicly appealed to the Frenchman to follow the example of other stars: „I hope that Dayot follows his heart – just like Musiala, Davies and Kimmich.“
Upamecano: „I’m only concentrating on this season“
Speaking to France’s L’Équipe, Upamecano now made it clear that he doesn’t want to be put under pressure: „My agent is taking care of it. We’ll make the right decision. I’m being well advised. I’m concentrating on this season and my goals with the club and the national team. I don’t have a head for that.“
While there have been increasing reports from Munich recently that talks are progressing positively, Upamecano is keeping a low profile. However, the centre-back indirectly confirmed with his latest statements that an agreement is not yet within reach.
In addition to FC Bayern, Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid in particular are said to be keeping an eye on the defender. Upamecano is taking note of the interest shown by these top clubs: „I’m completely relaxed. I’m under contract with FC Bayern. I have goals. I’m very grateful when clubs are interested in me.“
Even though the Frenchman emphasizes that he feels at home in Munich, he has yet to make the clear commitment that those responsible at Bayern would like to see.
Bayern hoping for the „Kompany effect“
The fact that Upamecano is currently playing better than ever before has a lot to do with coach Vincent Kompany. The Belgian trusts his defensive boss unconditionally – and the club’s management is hoping that this relationship will ultimately be the deciding factor in keeping the Frenchman in Munich.
Concluding talks before the end of the year remains Bayern’s declared goal, but Upamecano is taking his time – and keeping all options open.