'I'm coming back a better player' - Bundesliga champion Josip Stanisic ready to help lift Harry Kane & Co as he signs new long-term Bayern Munich deal following loan spell at Bayer Leverkusen

After struggling for game time at Bayern, the Croatian international joined Leverkusen on a season-long loan this term. The defender made 38 appearances, scored four goals, and helped Xabi Alonso's side win the Bundesliga and the DFB-Pokal. Now, the 24-year-old has signed a new five-year contract until 2029, with the Croat setting his sights on winning trophies with team-mates Harry Kane and more.

He told Bayern's website: "I’m pleased to have signed a new contract at my club, FC Bayern. I’ve been a fan of this club for as long as I can remember. I’m grateful to Leverkusen because I learned a lot there – both on and off the pitch. I got to play a lot of games, show what I can do and get into a rhythm. I’ve grown in confidence and I think I’m coming back a better player. My objectives are clear: give everything for FC Bayern and win as many trophies as possible. It’s nice to be back home."

Bayern's failure to win any silverware this season was their first since the 2011-12 campaign. With new boss Vincent Kompany leading the German giants next season, he may need all the help he can get to return them to winning ways. And, Stanisic may be able to help towards that goal.

Stanisic, who has been representing Croatia at Euro 2024 in Germany, will now begin his summer break after his national side crashed out of the international competition. The Bayern academy product will return for pre-season training in the coming weeks.