At the end of last year, it was reported that Leon Goretzka had contacted his former coach Hansi Flick, about a potential move to Barcelona.
The report came at a time when the German international was facing an uncertain future at Bayern Munich, with his contract expiring at the end of the season.
However, in a recent interview, Goretzka cleared the air about this rumour, confirming that he had never made such calls.
Goretzka’s clarification on Flick rumour
Speaking to Die Zeit (h/t iMiaSanMia), Goretzka categorically denied contact with Hansi Flick amid an uncertain future at Bayern Munich.
“I read that I supposedly contacted Hansi Flick in Barcelona. I can deny that here and now,” said the German midfielder.
Formerly of Schalke, Goretzka has been a part of the Bayern Munich setup since 2018. During his time in Bavaria, he has featured in almost 300 competitive matches.
Leon Goretzka, Bayern Munich star
Leon Goretzka could leave Bayern at the end of the season. (Photo by Sebastian Widmann/Getty Images)
However, with his current deal expiring in the summer, Goretzka could become a free agent, making him a potential option for Barcelona.
It was reported at the start of the month that the Catalans are monitoring the German star due to a request placed by Hansi Flick.
It must be noted that Goretzka and Flick worked together in the German national team as well as at Bayern Munich. The midfielder had even played a key role in the Bavarians’ successful treble-winning campaign in 2020.
Goretzka has played more football under Flick than any other coach in his career, with a total of more than 4,500 minutes accumulated across 65 competitive matches.
However, not much noise regarding Goretzka has come since then, which implies that Barça are more interested in signing players in other positions, including central defence.