Upcoming Exit: Bayern Munich also part ways with forward Vidovic - In the upcoming match, Bayern Munich has decided to offload forward Vidovic as well.
Taking a page from Leroy Sané and Mathys Tel, another offensive force is bidding farewell to FC Bayern Munich - Gabriel Vidovic. The Croatian U21 national team member is joining Dinamo Zagreb following a year-long sojourn with Bayern.
Vidovic, a promising 21-year-old attacker, joined Bayern's youth club at the tender age of 12. After breaking into the first team in 2022, Vidovic racked up eight appearances for the champions and was loaned out to Vitesse Arnhem, Dinamo Zagreb, and the most recent, FSV Mainz 05.
Christoph Freund, Bayern's sporting director, recognized Vidovic's growth, stating, "Gabriel Vidovic honed his skills at our FC Bayern Campus, growing steadily through our loan system while embracing every challenge along the way. Now is the opportune time for the next phase of his career."
Vidović's journey with Bayern is marked by key milestones and achievements:
Early Days and Progression
Vidović began his footballing journey with FC Augsburg before joining Bayern's youth academy in 2016. He rose through the ranks of Bayern's youth teams, showcasing his goal-scoring abilities as either a midfielder or a forward[1][3].
Bayern II and First-Team Debut
Vidović averaged 21 goals in 33 appearances for Bayern Munich II, a testament to his finishing prowess at the second-team level[3]. His Bundesliga debut came on 17 April 2022, as a substitute in a resounding 3-0 win against Arminia Bielefeld under boss Julian Nagelsmann[1][4].
Loan Spells for On-Field Experience
Vitesse (2022-23)
Following a switch to Dutch Eredivisie club Vitesse in 2022, Vidović garnered valuable first-team experience, making 25 appearances and finding the net four times[1][3].
Dinamo Zagreb (2023-24)
In the 2023-24 season, Vidović joined Dinamo Zagreb for a loan deal with an option for permanent transfer. With 40 appearances and nine goals to his name, his time in Croatia demonstrated impressive contributions to the top division[1][3].
Mainz 05 (2024-25)
Signing a contract extension, Vidović was loaned to Bundesliga rivals Mainz 05. However, Bayern recalled him in February 2025 following adjustments to the squad[1][3].
Permanent Transfer and Future Prospects
In June 2025, Bayern sold Gabriel Vidović to Dinamo Zagreb for a reported fee of €1 million. Freund lauded the strategic loan spells' role in Vidovic's development and highlighted this move as a new chapter for the young player to secure regular first-team football[2][3][4].
Vidović's career at Bayern Munich was defined by precise youth nurturing, strike-force accomplishments at the reserve level, introductory Bundesliga exposure, and loan spells propelling him across Europe. Before departing for further growth, Vidovic left his mark on Bayern's system involving strategic loan moves and honing his skills[1][3][4].
- In an effort to support his development and contribute to the growth of the Croatian footballing community, Gabriel Vidovic's permanent transfer to Dinamo Zagreb was facilitated by FC Bayern Munich, ending a year-long loan spell with the club.
- As part of the broader strategy for Community aid, the football sector in Zagreb will likely benefit from Vidovic's presence, as his skills and experience accumulated during his time with Bayern Munich could contribute positively to the sport in the region.
