Bayern CEO discusses possible new deal for Goretzka: "He plays almost every game"

After being deemed surplus to requirements in the summer, Leon Goretzka has battled his way back into regular action for Bayern Munich.

Given that, a contract extension beyond 2026 for the central midfielder no longer seems unrealistic.

Speaking to t-online, club CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen didn't want to say too much about the midfielder's contract situation, but acknowledged that he has become a key player as the season has progressed.

“That is primarily the responsibility of (board member for sport) Max Eberl and (sporting director) Christoph Freund, who are conducting the talks. Leon still has a contract until 2026, but in recent weeks and months other issues have had to be addressed. Christoph and Max have done an excellent job,” said Dreesen.

Asked if Goretzka has convinced him that he deserves a new deal, Dreesen added: 

“Well, he plays almost every game for us. Vincent (Kompany, Bayern's head coach) is using him and he's doing very well. We'll see about the rest.”

Goretzka hasn't just battled his way back into Bayern's starting line-up, but into Germany's as well - and Dreesen is "happy" for the 30-year-old.

“It's a very special story, of course. He has done exceptionally well. The biggest compliment for him was certainly the fact that the Germany coach brought him back into the national team. I think he definitely lived up to expectations.”

Goretzka started both of Germany's UEFA Nations League quarter-final games against Italy and scored in the first leg.