Niko Kovac: Jerome Boateng is “one of us”

Jerome Boateng’s career at FC Bayern Munich appeared to be coming to an end with the defender heavily linked with a move away from Bavaria. However, after a positive preseason campaign, the 2014 World Cup winner has been described as “one of us” by Niko Kovac (as captured by DW).

When Die Roten celebrated another Bundesliga title at Marienplatz, Uli Hoeness recommended Boateng pursue his career elsewhere. Talking to the German media, the club president stated, “I’d advise him to find another club.”

But now internal opinions on the 30-year-old appear to have shifted, all but confirming the defender’s future at Bayern. CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge acknowledged Boateng’s positive preseason campaign, while both Thomas Müller and Niklas Süle highlighted the importance of the World Cup winner at Bayern.

The addition of Benjamin Pavard and Lucas Hernandez undoubtedly calls the long-term future of Boateng into question. However, the departure of Mats Hummels could provide the German with an opportunity to remain in Munich. Rather than potentially becoming the fourth-choice center-back at FC Bayern, Boateng could also pursue other avenues in his quest for first-team football. While his future will remain uncertain until the transfer window closes, Boateng is a player valued by staff and players at Die Roten.