Aleksandar Pavlovic has long been more than just a promise for the future. The 21-year-old has developed from a campus talent to an integral part of the first team at FC Bayern – and apparently has no thoughts of ever leaving Munich
In an interview with tz, the midfielder made it clear how closely he identifies with the record champions. „I’m living my childhood dream,“ says Pavlovic. From ball boy in the Allianz Arena to the Bayern campus to regular player with the professionals – his story is one that is particularly appreciated in Munich
No fear, no doubt
The Munich native describes himself as someone who has never felt any fear on the pitch. „Playing in front of the South is impressive, but it doesn’t make me nervous. On the contrary, it pushes me,“ he explains. Even on his Bundesliga debut, he didn’t feel any nervousness, a mental advantage that benefits him at the highest level
Looking back, Pavlovic mainly sees physical changes. „I used to be small, slight, an asparagus. Now my body has developed enormously.“ However, his character has remained the same. „There’s no reason to take off just because you’ve got a few more games under your belt.“
The difficult phases in his youth in particular had shaped him. As a late developer, he often had physical disadvantages. „That wasn’t easy. But there was never any self-doubt.“ Giving up was „never an option“ for him
Praise from Eberl – and a clear division of roles
Pavlovic is particularly pleased that sporting director Max Eberl has recently praised him publicly: „To be honest: totally. I’m always happy to hear praise.“ At the same time, he clearly defines his role: „We organize everything behind them – they should score up front.“ A sentence that reveals a lot about his self-image as a director
When asked whether he could imagine a full career at FC Bayern, Pavlovic answers without hesitation: „Absolutely.“ He knows nothing else but this club. „If everything goes the way we want it to here, there’s no reason to do anything else.“
These are words that will be gladly heard at Säbener Straße. A home-grown talent who performs and at the same time sees a long-term perspective – that fits the ideal image of FC Bayern. Pavlovic seems determined to continue his path in red for many years to come.