Following a new two year contract extension with Bayern Munich, Serge Gnabry is all set to continue his exploits with the Bavarians until 2028. The German attacker was backed by his coach Vincent Kompany
to play an important role for the club, both on and off the pitch.
A gun on the pitch and a pillar in the locker room
The resurgence of Serge Gnabry needs no new mentions. His rejuvenated form this season has taken everyone by surprise. Thrown into the middle of the attack after a horrific injury to Jamal Musiala, Gnabry has gone on to own the number 10 role for Bayern. While he has been the most effective playing behind Harry Kane, Gnabry has also been a reliable option to cover the wings.
With 15 goal involvements for Bayern in all competitions, Gnabry is averaging 0.95 goal involvements per 90 minutes played. Adding to that, has been his uncanny ability to glue the attack together into a cohesive unit with sharp passes in the opposition’s third.
Speaking to the press ahead of the Bundesliga bout against TSG Hoffenheim, Vincent Kompany underscored the importance of the Bayern number 7. “Serge has often shown his qualities. In addition, he’s very important in the changing room. He has a special role, also off the pitch. I appreciate his role. We believe that he can continue to do what he’s been doing of late in the coming years as well,” said Kompany (as captured by @iMiaSanMia) putting significance on Gnabry’s role as an important leader for some great young players coming up the ranks.
A mid-season shake up and a senior anchor
The right wing and striker positions are the only steady positions in terms of personnel in the attacking department. With the return of Jamal Musiala and the phenomenal debut season of Lennart Karl the attack is bound for a shake-up.
The central attacking spot in particular, is under a lot of heat due to the jostling duo of Jamal Musiala and Lennart Karl. However, Gnabry has been excellent at that position too, leaving some key decision making and rotation calls in the hands of Vincent Kompany.
Having played at the wings for most of his career, sustaining his form despite being shuffled around will be vital for Gnabry and Bayern. The attack is not very deep and considering Musiala’s return will be a progressive one, Gnabry will not only have to adapt to the shuffling around but even assist the younger players to handle the extra fluidity in position, something that Kompany would be relying on.
Gnabry’s form might have been wavering, however his commitment to the club, its philosophy and his professionalism have always been steady as a ship. And, this renewal of trust from the club after a promising resurgence is hopefully a great sign for the youngsters to imagine a full and fruitful career with the club.
