Neuer offers words of support for out-of-favor Goretzka: “I believe in him”

Manuel Neuer has backed Leon Goretzka to fight his way back into the Bayern Munich team.

Since Vincent Kompany took over as Bayern Munich coach in the summer, Leon Goretzka has slipped down the pecking order at the Bavarian club. 

The experienced midfielder has been left out of Bayern’s squad multiple times, most recently for Saturday’s 6-1 win over Holstein Kiel. 

But although things are looking bleak for Goretzka right now, Bayern captain Manuel Neuer still believes that the 29-year-old has a role to play for the club. 

“He has always been an important part of things. That’s why everyone wants him back on the pitch with us. I believe in him,” said Neuer at a press conference ahead of Bayern’s Champions League opener against Dinamo Zagreb on Tuesday. 

“He’s completely motivated. You see that in every training session. I’m convinced his time will come.” 

With Sacha Boey having picked up a long-term injury, Goretzka is at least set to return to the Bayern squad. 

“We had to leave one player at home against Kiel. Now Sacha Boey is out, so there’s no need for that question,” said Bayern coach Vincent Kompany when asked about Goretzka’s role on Monday. 

“Focus before the game is fully on the game. We need positive energy.”