Bayern Munich campus director says Josip Stanisic is already a role model for younger players

One of Bayern Munich’s best discoveries this season has been the emergence of Josip Stanisic. The Croatian defender is just 21-years-old and contracted until 2023. With Benjamin Pavard injured and a ack of confidence in Bouna Sarr, Stanisic has risen to the occasion at right-back.

Stanisic was used for the Bayern amateurs in the 3rd division last season but has completely convinced Julian Nagelsmann of his ability in his preparation for this season. It is not just Nagelsmann who has taken notice of the Munich-born defender, though.

“It’s nice how consistently he shows that under a certain pressure with the professionals. That’s already enormously impressive at this age with few Bundesliga games,” said Jochen Sauer, head of the Bayern campus (per Abendzeitung).

Sauer states that the young Croatian’s mental strength is impressive. It wasn’t producing any “wow moments” that got the attention of critics. It’s his stability and his trust in his own strengths. This allows consistency throughout performances and his game relies on stability. This stability is what helps him stays focused in games and stay collected.

Sauer states that Stanisic has always shown this steadiness in the youth ranks and in the third division. Sauer is also confident that Stanisic is able to play in several different positions on the pitch. Nagelsmann also values this flexibility on the pitch. With this in mind, one can assume that the Croatian will remain an important option in this squad even when Benji returns.

“When Benjamin Pavard and Lucas Hernández are back, it will also be a challenge for him to secure the place. But I am not worried that he will not be able to persist at the highest professional level over the long term,” believes Sauer.

Nagelsmann is known for promoting youth players and strengthening their game. Stanisic has been the first Bayern player to see this rise through the ranks, but many others are sure to follow suit. Who do you think will be the next youth player to earn a spot in Nagelsmann’s squad?