The FC Bayern chapter is over for Corentin Tolisso. The former Munich record purchase never became an absolute top performer. His replacement is already in the starting blocks.
Munich (dpa / lby) - FC Bayern Munich plans for the future without midfielder Corentin Tolisso. While there is still uncertainty in the opaque transfer poker surrounding top scorer Robert Lewandowski, the Munich team is creating clarity with the French world champion. Tolisso's time at Säbener Straße ends after five years. The contract with the 27-year-old national player, which expires in the summer, will not be extended, as FCB announced on Monday in a "Merci, Coco" farewell message.
The departure of Tolisso had been indicated for months. Above all, Bayern's constant interest in Ajax-Amsterdam player Ryan Gravenberch, who is said to be about to sign in Munich and could advance to replace Tolisso in midfield, had fueled speculation about a change. Now "a new page is being opened," Tolisso wrote on Instagram.
Munich CEO Oliver Kahn thanked the Frenchman for his achievements and commitment. "Corentin Tolisso was part of our team for five years, which made history with the six-title season 2020, among other things," said the former international goalkeeper, according to the club's statement.
As a free transfer player in the prime of footballing age, Tolisso should have the doors open at some of the top European clubs. Only his susceptibility to injury, which had repeatedly slowed him down at Bayern, could deter one or the other club. Recently there was speculation about a move to Sevilla FC. A return to his youth club Olympique Lyon, from which he came to Säbener Straße in 2017 for a fee of 41.5 million euros, is also in the offing.
Above all, Tolisso's injuries prevented the former Munich record purchaser from becoming an absolute top performer. Most recently, a torn muscle fiber threw him back once again. The Frenchman could never really recommend himself for a new contract. Sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic still had words of praise when he said goodbye. "Even in difficult phases, he never let himself be thrown off track and always gave everything for FC Bayern. We wish him every success on his way," said the 45-year-old.
Tolisso celebrated the greatest successes of his career with the Munich team. The right-footed player scored 21 goals in 118 competitive games for FCB. He won the German championship five times with Bayern, the DFB Cup twice and the Champions League once. "A big THANK YOU for these 5 beautiful years, which have brought me so much sportingly and personally," wrote Tolisso.
