Bayern Munich defender Holger Badstuber hadn’t played a match in over 20 months, the last time being in December 2012 against Borussia Dortmund. In that contest, he tore his anterior cruciate ligament, one of the most devastating injuries for an athlete.
But on Sunday, he finally made his official comeback, taking the pitch for 79 minutes in DFB-Pokal on Sunday, as Bayern defeated Preussen Munster, 4-1.
He was ecstatic to ave the opportunity to compete with the first-class German squad again.First game. Done!!! Thankful to be back on the field... It is simply the best!!! #FCBayern#dfbpokal#amazing
— Holger Badstuber (@Badstuber) August 17, 2014
The 25-year-old has made 101 appearances for the Bavarians since he debuted in 2009, when he made the jump from Bayern II to the first team before signing a four-year extension through 2010. Following his leg injury, in February 2013, Bayern recognized his significance to the club’s future at defense, inking him through 2017 with another four-year deal.
Bayern’s weakness in the central defense has been witnessed. Pep Guardiola and Bayern’s management are obviously trusting that Badstuber can fortify to the back line, assuming his form will pan out as it did in 2009-10. Rocky performances during the 2010 World Cup and 2011 Bundesliga season have hopefully subsided for the German footballer.