Goretzka’s Instagram Purge Sparks Speculation — But Bayern Exit Not the Reason
Leon Goretzka’s recent decision to delete all FC Bayern–related posts from his Instagram account has triggered widespread speculation among fans and media, with many interpreting it as a sign of an impending departure from the German record champions. However, the true motive behind the move appears to be far more personal.
According to sources close to the midfielder, Goretzka’s action was a conscious step to distance himself from what he perceives as the “digital toxicity” of social media. In recent months, the 29-year-old has reportedly been subjected to an overwhelming wave of negative and, at times, hateful messages. While criticism is part of life for a professional footballer, the intensity and persistence of the attacks are said to have crossed his personal limits.
Particularly on the platform X, discussions around his performances have often become emotional and aggressive. Notably, a significant portion of the backlash has come from international Bayern supporters, highlighting how the globalization of football has increased both the reach and the pressure on top players.
On the pitch, Goretzka has faced stiff competition in Bayern’s midfield and has not always been able to perform at his highest level in recent weeks. At a club with such high expectations, fluctuations in form are quickly magnified. Yet even during stronger performances, the online criticism reportedly continued, becoming more personal than purely performance-related.
As a result, the German international decided to “create a bit of order” by removing Bayern-related content from his profile, aiming to gain distance from the constant online pressure. Crucially, this social media reset is not meant to signal anything about his sporting future.
Goretzka’s contract with FC Bayern expires at the end of the current season. At present, there are no strong indications that the club is pushing for an extension, nor are there reports of advanced talks elsewhere. Still, insiders stress that his Instagram move should not be read as a farewell message.
Instead, it serves as a reminder of the mental strain elite athletes face in the digital age. For now, Goretzka’s focus remains firmly on football — not on Instagram, and not on speculation about the next chapter of his career.
