- Light up the A-League with Adelaide United
- Secured a transfer to the German superpower club
- Has now requested to leave for good reason
Former Adelaide United star Nestory Irankunda has made a shock request to secure a move from Bayern Munich as he looks for more first-team opportunities.
The 18-year-old joined Bayern Munich after the 2023/24 A-League season, quickly becoming a fan favorite at Adelaide United.
Since moving to Germany, Irannunda has made fifteen appearances for Bayern’s reserve team in the German Regionalliga, scoring four goals.
Last week, Irankunda was on the bench for Bayern Munich’s UEFA Champions League match against Shakhtar Donetsk.
Although he did not take the field in the 5-1 win, being part of the squad was described as ‘a dream come true’.
“It was surreal,” Irankunda said during an interview at Coopers Stadium, where he joined the Network 10 panel for Adelaide United’s match against Sydney FC.
Rising Socceroos star Nestory Irankunda has applied for a loan from Bayern Munich
The winger is back in Australia for the holidays and said he wants to get more time on the pitch
“Bayern Munich were great, but it’s always good to be back in Australia.”
Looking back on his time in Germany, Irannunda acknowledged the challenges and highlights.
‘Their technique is unreal, but the language is terrible. I only speak English,” he joked.
He also shared his excitement about training with high-profile players.
‘It was surreal to see Vincent Kompany, the coach. He’s a legend. And then of course it’s even better to see players like Harry Kane and Leroy Sané, because they are such high-profile players.’
When asked about his future, Irannunda confirmed that he has been in talks with Bayern Munich over a possible move.
‘Of course I spoke to them. You want to play at the top level, first division and at a good club,” he said.
‘I have spoken to the club and the coaches about a loan because I feel this is better for me. I have to play; I can’t keep playing under 23 every week.’
Irankunda has had limited opportunities to impress for Bayern Munich since moving to Germany following his top flight in the Australian A-League
Irannunda’s move to Bayern Munich has caused a stir in Australia as the Socceroos continue their search for the next standout talent.
His time with Bayern’s reserves has provided valuable experience, but the winger believes consistent first-team minutes are crucial to his development.
Bayern head coach Vincent Kompany recently included Irankunda in the squad for a DFB Pokal match, although he remained an unused substitute.
Irannunda also made headlines with his pre-season performances, raising expectations for his potential first-team debut.
Socceroos head coach Tony Popovic commented on Irankunda’s omission from the recent World Cup qualifiers, explaining it was a decision to give him time to adapt to life in Germany.
‘He plays for one of the biggest clubs in the world. We feel this is an opportunity for him to establish himself, develop and grow,” Popovic said.
The next Socceroos World Cup qualifier is scheduled for March.