Bayern Munich's Polish forward Robert Lewandowski reacts during the UEFA Champions League group A football match Bayern Munich v Salzburg in Munich, southern Germany on November 25, 2020. (Photo by CHRISTOF STACHE / AFP)
Julian Nagelsmann has rubbished talks of the possible exit of Robert Lewandowski.
Reports circulated that the 32-year-old was seeking a new challenge after a hugely successful seven-year stay at Allianz Arena.
Clubs like Manchester United, Manchester City and Real Madrid have been suggested as possible destinations for the Polish striker but the Bayern hierarchy, including gaffer Nagelsmann were unfazed by the reports.
Nagelsmann told journalists: “That doesn’t bother me at all, if I’m being honest. That is part of the business.
“If I were not a manager at Bayern, but at another big club, I would always ask about that name and hope that something would work.
“It’s because he scores a lot and is the most dangerous striker out there. This is completely normal.
“The only thing that matters to me is how the player reacts – and Lewy is in top shape. He talks a lot to me and the players in training. He is not a satellite that isolates himself and hopes that he will go away.
“He feels good, which was also shown by his performance against Dortmund. Even in training. A player who wants to leave would not do that.
“It is part of life that there are rumors. Live and let live, journalists and footballers alike. When the footballer is in a good mood, and that’s the case, we’re all happy.”
The former RB Leipzig boss cleared the air on the respective futures of Leon Goretzka and Joshua Kimmich as both players are reportedly on the verge on officially signing new deals.
Nagelsmann added: “In general, I don’t sleep that badly (because of their contract situations). Josh and Leon’s situations are similar to Lewy’s. I don’t talk to them about their contractual situation every day. I think things look good with both of them.
“It’s perfectly normal for them to want to hear what the new coach is talking about. Do I want to work with him or not. If we take a few more steps there, I think it will look pretty good too.”
Bayern — who saw off fierce rivals Borussia Dortmund to win the DFL-Supercup in mid-week — will be back in action on Sunday when playing host to FC Köln.
Story by Sammy Wejinya
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