Daniel Peretz shines at Bayern Munich

Israeli goalkeeper Daniel Peretz has seized his moment in the spotlight as Bayern Munich’s rising star, stepping up for the soccer powerhouse during a pivotal stretch in the season.

The 24-year-old Tel Aviv native joined Bayern Munich in August 2023 from Maccabi Tel Aviv, bringing with him a reputation for skill and composure. For months, he patiently waited behind legendary goalkeeper Manuel Neuer. His opportunity finally arrived when Neuer suffered a rib injury, sidelining him until the new year.

Peretz’s debut came on December 4 in a DFB-Pokal German Cup match against Bayer Leverkusen, where he replaced Neuer after a red card. Though Bayern lost 1-0, Peretz’s performance displayed his readiness for high-pressure situations. Days later, he made his Bundesliga starting debut, leading Bayern to a 4-2 victory over Heidenheim.

The Israeli goalkeeper’s breakthrough continued in the UEFA Champions League. Starting against Shakhtar Donetsk, Peretz overcame an early goal conceded in the fifth minute to help Bayern rally for a commanding 5-1 victory on the road.

“It’s a dream come true,” Peretz said. “Playing in the Champions League couldn’t make me happier, especially securing a win after a tough start. Belief and hard work carried us through to victory.”

Peretz is not the first Israeli goalkeeper to play in the Champions League but stands out as one of the few to represent a global powerhouse like Bayern Munich in the competition.

Peretz’s journey began in the Maccabi Tel Aviv youth system, where he honed his skills and gained experience in European competitions. He played a pivotal role in Maccabi’s UEFA Conference League campaign during the 2021/22 season, which prepared him for the challenges of elite competition.

Since joining Bayern, Peretz has faced challenges, including minor injuries and limited playtime behind Neuer. “It’s tough to stay sharp without competitive matches,” he admitted. “Then, suddenly, you have to jump from zero to one hundred in an instant.”

Bayern Munich head coach Vincent Kompany praised Peretz’s composure and adaptability. “It’s not easy to be a goalkeeper at Bayern Munich you need character. Daniel has shown that he brings something special to the team,” Kompany said.

Technical director Max Eberl dismissed rumors of a search for another goalkeeper. “Daniel Peretz is a fantastic backup. He’s proven himself in the cup, Bundesliga, and Champions League,” Eberl said.

Peretz also shares a close bond with Neuer, who serves as both a mentor and friend. “Manuel has been my idol since I started playing as a goalkeeper,” Peretz said. “Learning from him daily is incredible.”

On the international stage, Peretz has shone for Israel’s national team, excelling in recent Nations League matches against Belgium and France. “It’s always an honor to represent Israel,” he said. “We’ve shown that we can compete with the best teams in the world.”

As Bayern Munich eyes Champions League success, Peretz remains focused on the team’s goals. “Our aim is to reach the final and win the tournament,” he said. “Every game counts, and we’re giving it everything to succeed.”

Peretz’s rise at Bayern Munich and his continued success on the international stage are inspiring a new generation of Israeli soccer players, proving that hard work and determination can make dreams a reality.

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