Mario Mandzukic: I no longer want to stay at Bayern Munich

Mario Mandzukic wants to leave Bayern Munich

Bayern striker Mario Mandzukic has stated that he will depart the club after the World Cup due to clashes with manager Pep Guardiola over his tactics and has now gained the attention of several Premier League clubs. Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal are huge fans of the prolific striker and will most likely be falling over each other soon to try and secure his services.

A rift with Guardiola became obvious after Mandzukic was not included in the German Cup final win over Borussia Dortmund last month which the Bundesliga champions won 2-0.

In an interview to Croatian newspaper Sportske Novosti the striker said: “I met with (Bayern chairman) Karl Heinz Rummenigge before the cup final and told him I wanted to leave the club.

“I've had a fantastic time at Bayern. It's a great club and I never thought I'd want to leave, and especially not at this point in time. But, let's be honest, I cannot play to my strengths under Guardiola's style - no matter how hard I try.

“I realised that after the 1-0 defeat by Real Madrid in the Champions League semi-final first leg and, that being the case, it's best for all parties that we go our separate ways. Guardiola is an outstanding coach and I wish him and everyone else at the club all the best in the future.

“Bayern and the club's fans will remain the best and most emotional chapter in my career.”

The 28-year-old had a stellar debut season with Bayern under Jupp Heynckes where he netted 22 goals and vastly improved in his second season under Guardiola where he netted 25 goals but is clearly unsettled with the Spaniards tactics.

Mandzukic, who will miss Croatia’s opening game against Brazil after being sent off against Iceland, will have no trouble finding work after he quits Bayern. However, the striker said he is keeping his options open.

He said: “It's time for a fresh challenge but don't insist because I have nothing to say. The public will be informed when the time comes, right now I am focused solely on the World Cup.”

A move from away from Bayern would prbably be best for Mandzukic who would have undoubtedly faced competition from the incoming Robert Lewandowski.