Nagelsmann hails Gnabry: "One of his finest performances..." | OneFootball

Serge Gnabry is back in the spotlight – and not on the wing. After his strong start to the season, national coach Julian Nagelsmann also spoke out with clear words.

In FC Bayern's 6-0 opening victory against RB Leipzig, Gnabry showed outstanding form. Particularly noticeable: The 30-year-old did not operate as usual on the wing but took on the role behind Harry Kane.

Julian Nagelsmann made it clear at the press conference for the DFB nomination for the September World Cup qualification matches: “The summer transfer window was quite good for Serge. We think he plays a good role as a central number 10. I don’t see him as a classic winger, which he mostly had to play at FC Bayern.” Gnabry was nominated for the upcoming international matches, even though he was previously considered a shaky candidate.

Central Role Instead of Winger

Nagelsmann particularly highlighted Gnabry's performance against Leipzig: “The game against Leipzig was extremely impressive; it was one of the best performances I have seen in the past five or six years.”

With this statement, the coach made it clear how much potential he sees in his protégé's new role. At the same time, he formulated a clear expectation: “It is important that Serge shows consistency. He has power, a good finish, and a certain creativity. As a number 10 behind Harry Kane, he brings his strengths into play.”

Gnabry brought his new role to life in the Bundesliga opener against Leipzig. Two assists, numerous dangerous actions – the offensive player presented himself as noticeably playful and dynamic. He represented the injured Jamal Musiala in the number ten position – and impressed with vision and determination.

From Uncertain Candidate to Key Player

The development is all the more remarkable since Gnabry was considered a potential sale candidate just a few weeks ago. Injuries and dips in form had set him back in the previous season. But the departures of Sané, Coman, Tel, and Zaragoza, as well as the injury to Jamal Musiala, changed the situation – Gnabry stayed and now seems more important than ever.

Vincent Kompany is also aware of his player's qualities. After the game against Leipzig, the Bayern coach said: “Serge is a very underrated player. He has repeatedly been important in big games for FC Bayern and continues to be important. I am not surprised and do not think he is currently much better than usual – this is his level.”

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.