Guardiola has destroyed Gotze at Bayern, alleges agent

Munich, July 6 (IANS): Bayern Munich head coach Pep Guardiola has "destroyed" Mario Gotze and is responsible for his struggles there, according to the German midfielder's agent.

The 2014 FIFA World Cup winner had been expected to play a starring role last season but was shuffled around positionally by Guardiola before being dropped for crucial semi-final ties in the Champions League and German Cup.

And the 23-year-old's representative, Volker Struth has pointed the finger of blame at the manager as the reason for the midfielder not fulfilling his potential so far, though he also ruled out an exit as of now.

"Guardiola has destroyed Gotze. He feels like the coach doesn't have faith in him and yet still he is asked to be decisive when he gets on the pitch," Struth was quoted as saying on Monday.

"I'm surprised that Guardiola didn't use Gotze in important matches like the German Cup and Champions League semi-finals. He only plays in the easy games," Struth added.

"I wonder why no one at the club has realised that and defended Mario. Bayern need a figure like former president Uli Hoeness again."

Gotze switched from Borussia Dortmund to Bayern for 37 million euros in 2013 at Guardiola's request but has failed to truly make an impact in either of his two seasons.