Reliable right-backs have been scarce at Bayern Munich. Ever since Joshua Kimmich moved to midfield during Hansi Flick’s tenure, there have been several candidates, but never a single standout player Bayern could call their starting RB. Between Michaël Cuisance, Benjamin Pavard, Niklas Süle, Noussair Mazraoui, Josip Stanišić and later Sacha Boey, it felt like the club was simply shuttling between whomever they could deploy at that point.
With the entry of Konrad Laimer, it looked like yet another
player was forced to play out of position as former manager Thomas Tuchel had him play at right-back during scarcity. However, Vincent Kompany turned this into something different. Seeing Laimer’s potential, the Belgian began transitioning the #8 into a full-blown inverting full-back. Turning him into an attacking weapon who could link with Olise was perhaps one of Kompany’s greatest tactical masterclasses.
In recent times fans have begun to notice and understand Laimer’s value, with his name now commonplace in conversations about Bayern’s attack. While being interviewed by ORF, the 28-year-old was asked on whether he’s surprised at becoming an undisputed starter and fan favorite.
Laimer responded, stating his conviction in his qualities and efforts. “I’ve always been convinced of the qualities I can bring to the team. I’m simply the type of person who gives it his all and then sees what happens in the end, and who always gives his all in training and in matches,” he said, per @iMiaSanMia.
“You never know where the journey will lead when you take such a step, but I’ve always known I can make my mark anywhere,” he declared.
He’s got a way with words, I can’t lie.
