Upamecano: "I have no friends today"

He has developed significantly at Bayern, becoming more mature and more confident in his actions. His interplay with Jonathan Tah also seems to be working. Dayot Upamecano has gained in quality, something that PSG, their quarterfinal opponent, also appreciates. The Munich central defender knows several of his opponents' players very well.

Focused on the game: Dayot Upamecano picture alliance/dpa

Georg Holzner reports from the Club World Cup in Atlanta, Georgia

He's fit again after a loose joint in his knee forced him out for around two months. After being slowly introduced to the team with part-time appearances at this Club World Cup, Dayot Upamecano was able to make his first start in the round of 16 against Flamengo (4-2). He can also be expected to start in the big clash with Paris St. Germain this Saturday (6 p.m. German time). Alongside Jonathan Tah , he'll be starting.

"I'm very happy with him; he's doing very, very well," says the Frenchman about his new partner in Bavaria's central defense. The two quickly developed a good understanding and adapted to each other. An expected step given their combined talent, but by no means a given. Yet the two seem to be getting along.

Upamecano, and this is impressive, has improved enormously over the past year. His obvious errors have decreased, while his important and powerful clearances have increased. His ability to snuff out opposing attacks as an extremely high defender in midfield is also a high quality. He has already set up two goals this tournament – most recently Harry Kane 's goal against Flamengo. Upamecano has not only become more consistent, he has matured.

Understandably, the Munich bosses are keen to extend his contract, which expires in 2026. "I'm only focused on the game," says the 26-year-old. Therefore, now is not the time to discuss the status of negotiations.

Currently, the time is wrong for contract negotiations

In the meantime, many points point to a quick agreement, although the extensions of Jamal Musiala , Alphonso Davies , and Joshua Kimmich were not taken into account at the time, nor was the (new German) signing fee paid to Tah. Upamecano knows the approximate figures. Therefore, there are currently reportedly different salary and signing-on fee demands – and the talks have been postponed for the time being. No wonder.

Regardless, Upamecano will now face PSG in the quarterfinals, who had been keeping a close eye on Upamecano a few weeks ago. There's reportedly a slight interest (kicker reported). Upamecano knows many Paris Saint-Germain players from the national team, such as Ousmane Dembelé , Bradley Barcola , and Desiré Doué . "I also have friends at Paris St. Germain; we play together on the national team," says Upamecano. "But I don't have any friends at this game today." Of course, he means that in a sporting sense, because "we want to win."