Chelsea-linked Gnabry explains reasons behind Bayern Munich contract extension after ‘thinking a lot’

Serge Gnabry has explained why he decided to extend his contract at Bayern Munich after being linked with a move to Chelsea this summer.

The 27-year-old made his debut in senior football with Arsenal. He was unable to establish himself as a regular for the London club.

Bayern Munich signed him for £8m in 2017 after he had a brief spell at their Bundesliga rivals Werder Bremen.

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Gnabry has performed brilliantly for Bayern Munich over the past four seasons. Last term he grabbed 14 goals and five assists in the Bundesliga.

His future at Bayern Munich was in doubt heading into this summer as his contract was due to expire in 2023.

Earlier this month it was reported that Chelsea were ‘showing interest’ in signing him after missing out on Raphinha.

He has now committed his future to the German club though. They have announced (via their official website) that he has penned a contract extension that runs until 2026.

Speaking on his extension, Gnabry acknowledged that playing at another club would not have “felt the same”:

“I thought a lot about what I want as a player in the coming years, and came to the conclusion that I want to stay at FC Bayern, win everything again here and experience things – in particular celebrating another Champions League title, but this time with our fans,” Gnabry said.

“It’s special because I get to play here with my friends at the highest level. It certainly wouldn’t feel the same at a different club. I want to experience more great moments here – and nowhere else. The hunger for major honours isn’t going away.”

Bayern Munich club president Herbert Hainer added: “It’s another strong signal that a player like Serge Gnabry sees his future at FC Bayern.

“He’s won everything here and identifies with the club so much that he wants to help write more chapters of club history. When he’s on the ball, he’s a joy to watch. With him, Sadio Mane, Thomas Müller, Kingsley Coman, Leroy Sané and Jamal Musiala, FC Bayern have outstanding options on the flanks which are among the best in European football.”