Why rising Socceroos star Nestory Irankunda has made a shock request to LEAVE Bayern Munich

As he looks for more first-team opportunities, former Adelaide United star Nestory Irankunda has made an unexpected request to join Bayern Munich on loan.

The 18-year-old joined Bayern after the 2023–24 A-League season, where he immediately won over Adelaide United supporters. Since coming to Germany, Irankunda has played in 15 games for Bayern’s reserve team in the German Regionalliga, scoring four goals.

Last week, Irankunda was named on the bench for Bayern Munich’s UEFA Champions League match against Shakhtar Donetsk.

While he didn’t take the field in the 5-1 victory, being part of the squad was described as ‘a dream come true.’

‘It’s been unreal,’ Irankunda said during an interview at Coopers Stadium, where he joined the Network 10 panel for Adelaide United’s clash against Sydney FC.

Bayern Munich has been amazing, but it’s always good to be back in Australia.’

Reflecting on his time in Germany, Irankunda acknowledged the challenges and highlights.

‘Their technique is unreal, but the language is horrible. I can only speak English,’ he joked.

He also shared his excitement about training with high-profile players.

‘Seeing Vincent Kompany, the coach, was unreal. He’s a legend. And then, obviously, seeing players like Harry Kane and Leroy Sané is even better because they’re such high-profile players.’

When asked about his future, Irankunda confirmed that he has been in discussions with Bayern Munich about a potential loan move.

‘Of course I’ve spoken to them. You want to be playing at a top level, first division, and at a good club,’ he said.

‘I’ve been in talks with the club and coaches about going on loan because I feel like it will be better for me. I have to be playing; I can’t keep playing under-23s every week.’

Irankunda’s move to Bayern Munich was widely publicized in Australia, where the Socceroos are still looking for their next big star.

Although he has gained vital experience from his time with Bayern’s reserves, the winger feels that regular first-team minutes are essential to his growth.

Irankunda was not utilized as a substitute in the DFB Pokal match that Bayern’s head coach Vincent Kompany recently named in the team.

Additionally, Irankunda’s preseason training efforts garnered media attention and increased anticipation for his possible first team debut.

In response to Irankunda’s exclusion from recent World Cup qualifying matches, Socceroos head coach Tony Popovic stated that the decision was made to give him more time to get used to life in Germany.

He is a member of one of the world’s largest clubs. We think it’s a chance for him to settle down, mature, and evolve,” Popovic stated.

March is the date of the upcoming Socceroos World Cup qualifier.