Konrad Laimer has been a mixed bag for Bayern Munich thus far.
Consistency hasn’t been the Austrian’s middle name, although, he has proved to be an important utility player, deputising across the midfield as well as right-back. Laimer has also proved he can show up in big moments. The Champions League quarter-final and semi-final clashes against Arsenal and Real Madrid come to mind.
Despite his strengths, Laimer finds himself in a congested midfield at Bayern, competing with the likes of Joshua Kimmich, Leon Goretzka, Alexander Pavlović and notably, new signing João Palhinha.
Laimer’s situation is uncertain under new head coach, Vincent Kompany, but he certainly hasn’t let it get in the way of his opinion of the Belgian coach.
The former RB Leipzig man had nothing but praise for Kompany in a recent interview with @FCBayern.com (as captured by @iMiaSanMia).
“He has a very clear idea of how we should play defensively and offensively. I’m soaking that up, as well as all his ideas on transition play. We’re learning more with each training session and can learn a lot from him. But we’ve only had a few sessions. When we’ve internalized that more, I’ll be even stronger,” Laimer noted.
It’s positive to see that Laimer is focusing on growth instead of the long list of names that are likely ahead of him in the pecking order.
The 27-year-old went on to give his immediate impression of Kompany, while admitting to being “a little bit nervous” about getting started.
“No, not early at all. You get a feeling immediately when you enter a room. Even when you have conversations, are on the training ground together, are in meetings. I already have a very good impression. I’m very positive and excited and also a little bit nervous that things are finally getting started,” said Laimer.
If first impressions last a lifetime, then Vincent Kompany shouldn’t have any trouble with Konrad Laimer this season.
In the end of the day, footballers want to play, and that will likely determine whether Laimer’s positive impression stands the test of time.
Looking for more thoughts and analysis on Bayern Munich’s fun 2-1 friendly victory over Tottenham Hotspur? Good, then we have you covered with our Bavarian Podcast Works — Postgame Show. You can get the show on Patreon, Spotify, or below: