From unknown to Hindrunde’s surprise package: Alphonso Davies reflects on his first year at Bayern Munich

Since talking to the German press for the first time exactly one year ago today, Alphonso Davies has established himself as one of the top talents in world football. Relatively unknown in Germany when he arrived, Davies was more known for his heart-warming background story than his ability as a football player. Davies raised many eyebrows this season as he got more playing time — and in an unfamiliar position, at that — proving that his footballing talent will dominate the future headlines.

Due to the many Bayern injuries, Niko Kovac was more or less forced to try out Davies in the left-back position. Not seeming faced at all by his position changed, the Canadian international surprised everyone by excelling in the left-back role and putting on excellent displays. His games against Borussia Dortmund and Tottenham Hotspurs under new coach Hansi Flick was proof that Davies can compete against challenging opposition.

Talking with fcbayern.com, Davies continually displays why he is not only a special player but a special type of person. Down to earth, goal-driven and confident, Davies explained how it feels like being a first-team regular:

Switching from left winger to left-back wasn’t so difficult. But I must learn more about the position. I’ve played there for the national team and my former club, Vancouver Whitecaps, but it’s different at Bundesliga level. I know my tasks, I think I’m doing quite well. But I have to stay focused and hungry.

Davies continues on his unpredictable position change:

In the beginning, I definitely didn’t expect to play for FC Bayern as a left-back. But things have changed. The coaches have seen in training I can play in the position, so they tried it. I was nervous before my first match, but that’s normal for young players. I must continue to improve and learn.

Refreshingly, Davies also praised Bayern’s ability to give youngsters a chance:

I think we can still improve as a team. 2020 can be a good year for the whole club, and also for young players like me. We saw how it went for Joshua Zirkzee, he got his chance and scored two goals in two matches. FC Bayern gives young players a chance to play, and I’m glad about it.

When asked about his obligatory serenade, Davies said he was nervous at first but was pleased that his teammates liked it. Fitting in socially is an important aspect when joining a new club, especially if you are a non-German teenager. Moving for anyone can be difficult, especially when it is to a different continent and even more so when you have the added pressure of what it means to play for Bayern Munich.

Keep on doing you Phonzie.