It was getting dark in Munich as the match between FC Bayern and Union Berlin entered the closing stages on Saturday afternoon. The contest had already been decided by goals from Harry Kane (15', 21') and Kingsley Coman (43') when fourth official Martin Petersen held up the substitution board in the 80th minute. The number 49 appeared in bright green.
The pride was written across the face of Adam Aznou as he readied himself to come on for birthday boy Alphonso Davies. When he high-fived the Canadian and stepped onto the field, a broad grin appeared. The 18-year-old left back, who signed a professional contract with the German record champions in May, already impressed in pre-season with good performances. Having also convinced in training, head coach Vincent Kompany rewarded the youngster by bringing him on for his senior debut.
Praise from Eberl and Kompany
"I'm very pleased and proud," said Aznou after full time, adding: "Bayern are one of the best teams in the world." His first appearance in the Bundesliga is the next milestone in the development of the talented defender, who also made his senior international debut for Morocco in September. "We think very highly of Adam, he's a huge talent," praised board member for sport Max Eberl. "We're glad that he's arrived in the professional game and now played his first match. He has incredibly big potential."
Kompany also emphasised his young protégé's great ability and enthusiasm: "Adam has done very well, both in training and with the national team. He is young, he and his parents should be proud." Aznou promptly repaid his coach's trust. "He got into the game well," said a satisfied Kompany.
Aznou: 'Keep working and keep at it'
For all the joy about his cameo appearance, the player himself remains grounded: "I have to be patient, keep working and keep at it," stressed the debutant. Kompany backed that up: "He has to keep going now, there's a lot of work ahead."
The first step in his professional career is complete. Now Aznou wants to continue working hard so that his shirt number appears on the substitution board more frequently in the future.
The reaction to the win over Union Berlin:
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