“Leon is one of us”: Müller’s match winner suffers in Goretzka’s absence

Thomas Müller is a true cup expert. Only two former professionals have played more games than him. The FC Bayern veteran played a key role in coach Vincent Kompany’s successful competitive debut against SSV Ulm. He then suggested someone who wasn’t even there.

In spite of all the joy of a guaranteed cup appearance, Thomas Müller also felt sorry for his teammate Leon Goretzka, who was not taken into account. “He is not in an easy situation at the moment, but he is still training very well,” Müller said after FC Bayern Munich’s 4-0 (2-0) victory over SSV Ulm in the first round of the Cup DFB. In a squad as good as the record champions, there are always serious issues. “But Leon is one of us.”

Veteran Müller, almost 35, scored an early goal (12th / 15th minute) to ensure Vincent Kompany was able to get off to a good start in competitive games as FC Bayern coach. “It wasn’t always perfect, but we played with discipline. 4-0 is good, now we can move on. It is important that we show the right energy. That is the basis, it has to be there,” said the Belgian coach. Kingsley Coman and substitute Harry Kane (90 + 3) increased the final score.

In the final stage, new Munich signings Michael Olise and João Palhinha were allowed to play for Bayern in a competitive game for the first time. The signing of Portugal’s Palhinha has further complicated the situation for Goretzka, who is going through another difficult phase after missing out on the European Championship at home. “I don’t think any player is happy,” athletic director Max Eberl said of the midfielder’s exclusion. “If you’re a player and an athlete, you want to be on the pitch.” Each player must decide for themselves how to deal with him. Goretzka’s contract runs until 2026. He is considered a candidate for sale.

Kimmich does not know where the talks are coming from.

“Ultimately it’s not my decision. From a player’s point of view, I really enjoy being on the pitch with Leon. I feel a little sorry for him,” said Joshua Kimmich, who formed the midfield with Aleksandar Pavlovic in Ulm. “But it’s not me who can decide. It is the decision of the coach and the club. And I don’t know what discussions are going on.”

Müller was able to enjoy the evening much more cheerfully. Grinning, his colleague Serge Gnabry took a photo of Mr. Pokal, who was surrounded by a large crowd of reporters in the Donaustadion. Only Charly Körbel (70 for Eintracht Frankfurt) and Manfred Kaltz (67 for Hamburger SV) played more DFB Cup games for one club than Müller for Bayern (66).

“Someone like Thomas plays like a Champions League final in his head – and that’s important,” Kompany said. Ulm coach Thomas Wörle, once a hero with FC Bayern’s women’s football team, was also enthusiastic “Unbelievable, unbelievable,” Müller’s movements are impressive, as is his acting.