Just over four years ago, Germany won the World Cup in Brazil courtesy of a goal in extra-time from then youngster Mario Gotze. The attacking midfielder’s striker earned Die Mannschaft a 1-0 win over Argentina and their fourth World Cup triumph.
Four years later and Germany are back to defend their title in Russia. However, the highly-rated wonderkid who scored the winning goal last time out is not. Now 26, Gotze was omitted from Joachim Loew’s 23-man squad.
Although he is one of the biggest names to miss Russia 2018, the decision was not much of a surprise one considering the riches the champions have at their disposal.
Not lived up to potential
In 2014 Gotze was one of the brightest young stars in a galaxy of world football. Unfortunately, the Dortmund midfielder has not lived up to his potential in recent years.
Since the last World Cup, Gotze has returned to Dortmund from arch-rivals Bayern Munich after an ill-fated spell in Bavaria. Injuries and poor form has hampered his career back at BVB.
Last season Gotze started just 19 Bundesliga starts for Dortmund, scoring twice and producing three assists. The previous season Gotze made just 11 Bundesliga appearances, scoring once and producing one assist.
Those are not exactly stats of a player in his prime. His poor performances cost him a place in Germany’s World Cup squad.
Premier League interest
According to Sky Sports, Premier League clubs Arsenal, Everton and West Ham are all interested in signing the former highly-rated attacking midfielder this summer.
All must still believe that Gotze can return to the form that once made him one of the most highly-rated young players in the world game.
Reportedly, Dortmund are willing to sell the Gotze this summer. However, BVB would be looking to receive around £22million for the star, which is the amount BVB paid to re-sign Gotze from Bayern in 2016.
A move could revive Gotze’s career
Mario Gotze’s career almost seems like it has been in status for the last few years. He has not been able to produce his best form and from the outside, he looks like he is short of confidence.
Mario Gotze certainly does not lack talent, but he has lost his way as many highly-rated youngsters do when they are hyped up by the media and fans. He has not lived up to expectations.
However, at 26, he still has plenty of time to return to top form at the top level of football. Maybe a move to a new environment like the Premier League could revive his flagging fortunes, as at the moment his career has hit the skids.
A fresh start and new challenge at a club like Arsenal or even Everton under Marco Silva could be ideal for Mario Gotze. No doubt he will have been upset at not making the Germany World Cup squad.
However, he needs to use the snub as motivation to return to form and the national team in the future. Who knows plying his trade in the Premier League could just be the answer for the highly-rated attacking midfielder.
Could Mario Gotze be plying his trade in the Premier League next season?
