Bayern Munich confirm that Javi Martinez will leave at the end of the season after winning a staggering 23 trophies in nine years… and a 24th is within touching distance
- Bayern Munich have announced the departure of Javi Martinez this summer
- The 32-year-old has endured nine trophy-laden years at the Allianz Arena
- He is on the cusp of winning another Bundesliga title to make it nine from nine
- The Spaniard also won two Champions Leagues and five German Cups at Bayern
Bayern Munich have confirmed the departure of Javi Martinez this summer with both parties agreeing not to extend his contract at the Allianz Arena.
The 32-year-old will be available for Bayern’s last three Bundesliga games against Borussia Monchengladbach, Freiburg and Wolfsburg in which just three points are required to claim a ninth consecutive German title.
That would bring Martinez an incredible 24th trophy in nine years in Bavaria, a collection which also includes two Champions League trophies, five German cups, two European Super Cups and two FIFA Club World Cups.
Bayern Munich have confirmed the departure of midfielder Javi Martinez this summer
The 32-year-old has won an incredible 23 trophies at Bayern and is on the cusp of No 24
‘I’m very proud and happy to have been part of the FC Bayern family for nine years,’ the Spanish defensive midfielder told the club’s official website. ‘I’d like to thank this great club and especially our fans – you have made Munich my home!
‘I’ll never forget these nine years. From the very first day, I felt the “Mia san mia” and the special nature of FC Bayern. I lived for this club, always gave everything for it, and am very happy about the many titles we won together.
‘FC Bayern and its fans will forever be in my heart. Muchas gracias, dankeschön, servus – see you again!’
Martinez’s service for Bayern – since arriving from Athletic Bilbao for £35m in 2012 – was also praised by the club’s hierarchy.
‘Javi Martinez is one of those people who make it clear what FC Bayern stands for,’ said president Herbert Hainer. ‘When top international players identify with our club the way he does, you can achieve great things.
‘Javi quickly became one of us, and the incredible amount of success we’ve enjoyed with him speaks for itself. Javi Martinez will always have a special place in the history of this club. We wish him all the best for his future.’
Martinez poses with the Champions League trophy last year after the final win against PSG
The Spaniard shares a hug with outgoing head coach Hansi Flick during training last month
Bayern CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge added: ‘Javi gave our team great quality in terms of play and has always been an excellent personal fit.
‘May I thank Javi for a tremendously enjoyable and successful time. Take care, Javi. You’ll always be an important part of the FC Bayern family.’
Martinez has made 266 appearances for Bayern in all competitions and has scored 14 goals as he established himself as one of the most effective defensive midfielders in Europe.
