The list of demands for Pep Guardiola’s reign next season has already started. Amid the astounding victory over Barcelona in the Champions league Semi-final, Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund triggered a media bomb yesterday that left the supporters of Borussia Dortmund heart broken as Mario Gotze is all set to leave them to join bitter rivals Bayern Munich, sowing consternation in the squad that will face Real Madrid tonight.
The news came as a bomb, like a dart pointed straight at the heart of Dortmund fans. A press statement released by the Dortmund’s CEO said,
Germany international Mario Götze and his agent Volker Struth informed Borussia Dortmund a few days ago that Götze wishes to trigger his release clause and move to FC Bayern Munich on 1 July 2013. “We’re obviously disappointed beyond measure, but would emphasise that both Mario and his agent have acted strictly within the terms of the contract,” said Borussia Dortmund CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke
Thirty-seven million release clause of the midfielder proved too much of a temptation and Borussia Dortmund had to accept it as Bayenr lands Guardiola’s first big money move even before his arrival at the Allianz Arena.
The timing of the news is what that will affect the Borussians as they get ready for their semi-final showdown with Real Madrid to book their tickets to Wembley. Manager Jürgen Klopp and CEO Michael Zorc, has launched a petition for fans to support Götze and the rest of the team until the season draws to a conclusion.
“We hope that you will continue to encourage, particularly in the important Champions League semifinal against Real Madrid to support him unconditionally as any other professional.”
The leaders of Borussia clarify that it was not ambition, but a deft handling of the contract by Götze and its representative that put off the team. “We are deeply disappointed of course, but we emphasize that both Mario and his counsel have acted absolutely based on contract,” referring to the use of termination clause that served as a gateway for Götze.
Götze has every reason to be happy. The 20-year-old midfield sensation will receive a salary of 7 million euros and will be amongst the top earners of Bayern Munich.
Meanwhile, he is writing the last pages with Borussia Dortmund squad that if you open your eyes to reality means it’s now or never to make history. After who knows how many of their most outstanding soldiers continue to defend their cause.