Bayern Munich: Malik Tillman eyeing gametime with first team

The last couple of seasons have been productive for Bayern Munich in terms of integrating young players from the reserves in the first team. The German Champions did struggle to make players from youth teams integral members of the first-team squad.

Jamal Musiala enjoyed a breakthrough campaign with Rekordmeister last season. The 18-year-old forward was rewarded with a new deal, and he was also subject to tug of war between DFB and FA for his international allegiance.

Before Musiala, Alphonso Davies was integrated successfully in the first team after arriving from Vancouver Whitecaps. Davies is not a product of the club’s youth academy, but his impact was not expected to be instant. However, consistent opportunities have allowed him to develop rapidly and become one of the best left-backs in Europe.

The next player that could be in line to make a mark in the first team is Malik Tillman. The young forward recently scored his first goal for Germany U21. While talking to Spox, Tillman admitted that he is working hard to get his chance with the first team and make a strong impression. Tillman did confirm that Julian Nagelsmann’s assistant did get in touch with him after his good performance with Germany U-21.

"“He (Nagelsmann)did not personally congratulate him. But his assistant Xaver Zembrod did. I assume that the trainer saw the game and discussed them with each other.”“Xaver got in touch because I’m in closer contact with him than with Julian. I hope my chances are better. You have to show yourself again and again in the club, prove yourself in training and wait for your chance. Do that me right now and I’ll take the chance when I get it.”"

Tillman had a hard time with serious injury last year, but he is now completely fit now. The young forward has trained with the first team this season. Die Roten has also quickly secured his future as he recently signed a long-term contract.

With Nagelsmann at the helm, Tillman will have a clear path to make a mark in the first if he continues to work hard in training. Josip Stanisic is already reaping the rewards for his hard work as the Croatian defender is currently second choice right-back in the first team. Stanisic has moved ahead of Bouna Sarr in the pecking order.

Since there is a lot of quality and depth in the attacking positions, Tillman will have to be patient for his opportunity. The Bavarian club also needs to manage his playing time across levels since he has just returned from a serious knee injury.

Meanwhile, Corentin Tolisso has given a fitness boost to Die Roten ahead of Sunday’s clash against Bayer Leverkusen. Tolisso has started training with his teammates after being on the sidelines in the past few weeks due to a calf injury. Kingsley Coman is also set to be in contention for the weekend’s game.