Borussia Dortmund have announced the signing of Mario Gotze from Bayern Munich.
The Germany international, who scored the winning goal in the 2014 World Cup final, had previously left Dortmund for the Bavarians but has now re-joined Thomas Tuchel’s side.
Gotze departed the club in somewhat acrimonious circumstances in 2013, having scored 31 goals in 116 matches for the club after his debut in 2008.
Some fans subsequently claimed that the 24-year-old would not be welcomed back to the club, but the deal has now been confirmed by both sides, with Gotze signing a four-year contract until 2020.
The attacking midfielder has also apologised to fans for his move to Bayern, and insists he will work hard to regain their trust, telling the club’s official website: “When I switched from BVB to Bayern in 2013 that was a conscious decision that I will not hide myself behind today.
“Three years later, and at 24, I look with different eyes at my decision. I can well understand that many fans could not understand my decision. I would not even take it today!
“When I return to my home, I want to try to convince all people with my performances – especially those who will not receive me with open arms. My aim is to again play my best football. For all of us, the club and the BVB fans. ”
Gotze struggled for game time at the Allianz Arena, and made just 14 Bundesliga appearances last term.
