Defense chief Tah echoes: "A clear definition of the position is needed"
Article:
Tah's Bayern Dream: Aiming High, but Earning the Role
Orlando (dpa) - Fresh off his transfer to the German giants, national defender Jonathan Tah isn't ready to label himself Bayern Munich's automatic new defensive mastermind. However, the 29-year-old hasn't shied away from expressing his hunger for a leadership role, sharing his ambitions during his official presentation ahead of the Club World Cup kickoff. "You bet your sweet ass I want a piece of that responsibility," he declared bluntly.
He insists he's not keen on the "defensive mastermind" title and emphasizes that the role must be earned within the team. "I'm a worker, someone who always pushes himself. Then we'll see if I can make this role mine."
Freund's Enthusiasm: "Absolutely Bloody Dream Player"
Bayern's sporting director Max Eberl and sporting director Christoph Freund seemed intent on making Tah a crucial member of the squad. Freund, in particular, couldn't contain his excitement while speaking at the team hotel presentation. The sporting director referred to Tah as an "absolute fucking dream player" and a "leader."
Tah had been instrumental to Bayer Leverkusen's success in the past two years, Freund noted, and he seeks to capitalize on this in Munich. "I'm here to test myself. I know the role from Leverkusen, naturally. But like I said, I have to earn it through blood, sweat, and tears."
Despite having just three days off with the other Munich national players after the Nations League and only touching down in the USA on Thursday, Tah's ready to make his Bayern debut as soon as Sunday (6:00 PM/Sat.1 and DAZN) in the first group match against Auckland City. "I'm good to go. I want to plant my roots here ASAP."
Insights:
Jonathan Tah's transfer to Bayern Munich, following his successful stint as captain at Bayer Leverkusen, could indicate a potential leadership role in Munich's central defense. However, it's yet to be confirmed whether he will officially take on the title of "defensive mastermind." Tah's arrival aligns with Bayern's plans to reinforce their central defense, potentially forming a duo with Dayot Upamecano. Notably, England's top striker Harry Kane has praised Tah, further supporting his potential as a leader within the team. Nonetheless, Bayern's specific leadership dynamics and whether Tah will officially become "the new defensive mastermind" remain to be seen.
- Jonathan Tah, having demonstrated leadership at Bayer Leverkusen, expresses his aspiration to test his skills in Munich, aiming to earn a role as a leader in Bayern's central defense, even though he hasn't been labeled the team's automatic "defensive mastermind."
- Bayern's sporting director, Christoph Freund, reveals his enthusiasm for Tah, referring to him as an "absolute bloody dream player" and a "leader," indicating Bayern's intentions to make him a crucial member of their squad, as Tah looks to capitalize on his past success in the European leagues, particularly within German football.