Bayern Munich’s 22-year-old Moritz Mosandl has been forced to retire following an ACL tear
Mosi, almost a year ago you finished your job after a long time of suffering. How do you look back on that time today?
“Now I have a certain sense of calm. Right after the decision, it was not easy. Football was my life, my biggest passion, and my dream since I was a child. But now I can say that I have made peace with it. I tried everything, so I can’t regret it. Of course, I would have wished for a different result, but I can accept the situation and now look forward to what’s to come.”
How hard was it for you to say goodbye?
“It’s very difficult. It wasn’t a decision I made overnight. I took part in the last pre-season training, hoping my body could still withstand the pressure. But I quickly realized that I was spending more time on the physio bench than on the training field. At one point, I had to admit to myself that it had become too much physically and mentally when I made my training decisions.”
How emotional were you when you told the team about your decision?
“Very. I was at FC Bayern for nine years, and I had known many of my teammates forever. My teammates were friends. When I stood in the locker room telling everyone it was over, that was the most important moment. That’s when you realize that a chapter of your life is ending. But I received amazing support. Everyone hugged me and wished me the best.”
After three ACL tears, many months out of football, and a few setbacks: What’s the hardest stage?
“Definitely the time after the second ACL tear. I was in good shape for about two years and had to have a couple of surgeries. That was mentally brutal. There were constant setbacks, and you felt like you weren’t making progress. The mental stress was more than the pain. There were days when you really had to push yourself to go back and rehab.”
What gave you strength during this time?
“Above all, my family, my friends, and my girlfriend. They never put me under pressure and always made me feel like they had my back – no matter what I decided. My girlfriend, especially, saw everything firsthand. We lived together for several years, she saw the hard days, and she always supports me. I thank her very much for that. And FC Bayern was always there, and I never felt alone in the club. In addition, my mentors have always supported me and will continue and supporting me in my journey after my playing career is over.
Last year, after more than 1300 days, he was allowed to wear the youth team jersey for the last time in the last home game of the season. What does this mean to you today, a year later?
“Very good. Yes, I did not know 100 percent at that time that it would be my last game as a football player – although I had a prediction. Today, I am very grateful that I was able to experience this moment. To wear this jersey again after three and a half years, to sit in the locker room with the boys and to be on the field and to feel the joy of the first game – and I feel very happy. One minute very consciously when I look back, I am happy that I received this sending.
After your playing career ended, you stayed with FC Bayern. What’s next for you?
“After retiring from professional sports, I gave myself time to process everything. After nine years as a player, it was not easy to just draw a line under everything. I am very grateful that I can continue to be part of the team. Since the spring, I have been working as an intern at the FC Bayern Campus. I am very happy that this team gave me the opportunity.”
What appeals to you about this role?
“Football has always been my love and will always be. Yes, it’s different when you’re no longer on the field yourself. But I see that I can contribute my knowledge from my playing days. I understand the player’s point of view, I know how certain situations feel, and how important certain details are. That makes the job incredibly enjoyable. And in fact, I also really enjoy being close to the academy. I feel part of my life here. I’m happy that I’m always connected to the community and I can continue to contribute hand in a different way.”
Can you imagine working in this field for a long time?
“Of course. I’m studying business administration and I want to improve in this area. Exploring is incredibly exciting and I’m happy to be able to get first-hand experience there.”
Looking back over the past few years, do you feel more proud or disappointed?
“I think thank you very much. Yes, I would have liked this story to end differently. But I was lucky to play for FC Bayern for nine years, I met a lot of special people, and I got a lot. Unfortunately, injuries are part of the game, even though it hurts. But I can say today that I gave everything and I have nothing to be ashamed of. And maybe that’s the most important thing is to finish that. that way.”
