Bayern Munich boss Vincent Kompany has confirmed that midfield stalwart Leon Goretzka will earn a starting spot in Saturday's Bundesliga clash against 1. FC Köln – but don't call it a farewell gift.
The 31-year-old German international is set to feature from the opening whistle as the Bavarian giants close out their league campaign before turning their attention to next week's DFB-Pokal final showdown with VfB Stuttgart. It's a moment that carries extra weight, with many expecting this to be Goretzka's final Bundesliga start for the club.
Kompany, however, was quick to dispel any notion that this was simply a sentimental gesture. Speaking at Friday's pre-match press conference, the Belgian boss made it clear that Goretzka has earned his place through dedication and consistency.
"I wouldn't call it a favour. The player who takes to the pitch has earned that respect. Of course Leon Goretzka will start; that's not a favour. He's earned it through years of hard work with this club," Kompany explained. "It's a nice gesture for the squad: what if someone else finds themselves in this situation one day? Everything comes to an end, and this time it's Leon's turn."
Kompany added a touch of pragmatism to the emotional storyline, noting that the decision comes with clear expectations. "For the other players, that time will come eventually too, and they can earn their chance to take centre stage. Hopefully it'll be a good experience. But Leon knows that if we're not leading, he might have to come off a bit earlier; we've already discussed that."
In other team news, veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer will retain his place between the sticks, meaning young shot-stopper Jonas Urbig will have to wait for his chance to face his former club. "Manu will play tomorrow. I know it might be emotional because it's against Köln. But Jonas will get plenty more chances to play against Köln," Kompany assured.
As Bayern look to build momentum heading into the DFB-Pokal final, all eyes will be on Goretzka as he takes what could be his final bow in the Bundesliga spotlight.