Mario Gotze has resolved to win over the Borussia Dortmund fans after completing his move back to the club he left three years ago.
Gotze, now 24, left Dortmund in favour of Bayern Munich but in recent times he found his career stalled at the Bundesliga champions.
Injuries, a lack for first-team opportunities and, crucially, a lack of form prevented Gotze from making an impact under Pep Guardiola last season.
He had been told by incoming boss Carlo Ancelotti that he was not guaranteed to be a regular starter at the Allianz Arena and so Gotze has opted for a return to Dortmund for a fee said to be in the region of £18.3m plus add-ons based on success.
Some Dortmund fans displayed a banner in April declaring they would be unwilling to welcome Gotze back to the Westfalenstadion and the player admits he can see their reasoning.
“When I switched from BVB to Bayern in 2013 that was a conscious decision behind [which] I will not hide myself today,” he said.
“Three years later, and with 24 years of age, I look with different eyes at my former decision.
I can well understand that many fans could not understand my decision. I would not even take it so today.”
After a torrid time in 2014/15, Dortmund bounced back last season to finish as runners-up in the Bundesliga under Thomas Tuchel.
Gotze has vowed to win over his former fans with his displays on the field as he seeks to rediscover the form that made him one of Europe’s most exciting creative midfielders.
“When I return to my home, I want to try to convince all people by my performances – especially those who do not receive me with open arms – that my aim is to play my best football again.
For all of us, the club and the BVB fans,” he added. Dortmund are 6.50 to win the Bundesliga title next season.
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