The Germany international says his now former club team-mate has said sorry for criticising his move to the Allianz Arena
Mario Gotze has revealed Mats Hummels has apologised for questioning his move to Bayern Munich after he was unveiled by the Bavarians on Tuesday.
The 21-year-old’s decision to leave Borussia Dortmund and join arch-rivals Bayern, after the Bundesliga champions met his €37 million release clause, sent shockwaves through German football back in January.
And though the dust has settled somewhat in the months that have passed, that didn’t stop BVB centre-back and Gotze’s now former team-mate Mats Hummels from suggesting the move was motivated by money last Thursday.
However, the midfielder insists their relationship remains a good one and was keen to put the matter to bed as he was presented to the media.
“I read what was said. Mats apologised to me in person. There is nothing more to add,” he told reporters.
Gotze’s arrival sees him become coach Pep Guardiola’s first signing at the Allianz Arena since taking over from predecessor Jupp Heynckes.
And he admitted he has already spoken to the Spaniard, while adding that the allure of joining the treble winners was just too great to resist.
“He [Guardiola] asked me how I am and when I will be fit again and if I feel comfortable here. It was important to me, to speak with the coach for the first time,” he continued.
“I am just happy to be here. Sportingly, it is the right way for me. It was important to me, to start something new. It is the whole package.”
The Germany international was forced to sit out the Champions League final between now former employers Dortmund and Bayern because of a hamstring injury, with Gotze targeting a swift return to action.
“I have do adapt to new surroundings, new team-mates, a new coach and a different philosophy. First, I have do do my rehabilitation. Then it is my claim to reach goals with this team and play good football.”
Gotze has signed a four-year-deal with Bayern until the summer of 2017.