Technical director Hasan Salihamidzic has in an extensive interview with BILD words of encouragement for Ryan Gravenberch and Noussair Mazraoui. The two have not yet secured a permanent place at Bayern Munich, but nevertheless South Germany is very satisfied with the wing defender and midfielder. Salihamidzic also discusses the latest transfer situation at Bayern.
Salihamidzic was pleased when he reached Mazraoui with Morocco to the semi-finals of the World Cup. “Nous did very well as a left back during the World Cup”, the former Ajax player receives as a compliment. “As a result, trainer Julian Nagelsmann has an extra option, although he is mainly in the picture for the right back position.” Mazraoui could play as a left back after the winter break especially after the serious injury Lucas Hernández suffered during the World Cup, which means that the left-footed full-back can no longer be used this season.
After a somewhat awkward start, Mazraoui is increasingly playing at Bayern. Due to the advance of the international of Morocco, Benjamin Pavard is increasingly sitting on the bench. An interim departure of the Frenchman is not inconceivable, Salihamidzic also knows. “With Pavard’s contract situation (which is fixed until mid-2024, ed.) in mind, we would be doing something wrong if we did not monitor the transfer market. We look around very carefully.” The technical person with ultimate responsibility emphasizes that the arrival of the Croatian World Cup revelation Josko Gvardiol is currently not an option.
“With Matthijs de Ligt, Dayot Upamecano and Lucas Hernández, we have three top players in the center of the back. And Josip Stanisic must also get playing minutes.” A new keeper is desirable, as Manuel Neuer is no longer playing this season due to a skiing accident. “We want the best solution for the short term. We are investigating various possibilities. Alexander Nübel would of course be a logical solution, but AS Monaco has the last word.” The goalkeeper currently plays on a rental basis for the Ligue 1 club.
Finally, Salihamidzic has encouraging words for Gravenberch, who is still waiting for his basic debut in the Bundesliga. “Ryan performed very well in the preparation”, the midfielder is complimented. “He hasn’t played much yet, but we still have every confidence in him. I am convinced that he will play more games in the coming games.” Gravenberch has so far made seventeen appearances in all competitions, ten of which as a substitute.