By Oliver Trust
BERLIN, March 22 (Xinhua) -- Serge Gnabry says the twists of his career have taught him patience, perspective and, at last, a measure of peace.
The Bayern Munich forward, now 30, is enjoying one of his strongest stretches in recent years after a run of injury setbacks and uncertainty that once left his future at the club in doubt.
Healthy again and back in form, Gnabry has become an important part of Bayern's push for trophies on three fronts, while also re-establishing himself in Germany's plans ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
"The challenge is not to lose faith as you face moments you can't really influence," Gnabry said after scoring twice in Bayern's recent 4-0 win over Union Berlin.
For Gnabry, the bigger victory has been regaining stability after a difficult spell shaped by repeated injuries. That renewed consistency helped convince Bayern to extend his contract through 2028, despite months of speculation that he could be sold. Gnabry has also accepted a pay cut to remain in Munich.
"I just saw the chance to gain stability when I can avoid further injuries," he said. "Bayern is my club."
His resurgence has come at a key moment for Bayern, which has scored 97 goals and is chasing the Bundesliga record of 101 set by the club in the 1971-72 season. Bayern is also firmly in contention in the German Cup and the Champions League.
Still, Gnabry has warned against getting carried away.
"It's important to see things as a long-distance race," he said.
His teammates and coaches have noticed the difference. Midfielder Joshua Kimmich was effusive in his praise after the Union win.
"His performance is crazy, incredible," Kimmich said. "I am happy we extended his contract."
Coach Vincent Kompany said Gnabry's biggest obstacle has never been talent, but fitness.
"Injuries have kept him from a steady performance, but he always fought back," Kompany said.
Kompany added that Gnabry remains on the same level of importance as Bayern's other attacking stars, including Harry Kane, Michael Olise and Luis Diaz.
"He is a factor for the team's spirits, on and off the pitch," Kompany said.
Over the years, Gnabry has developed into one of Bayern's most flexible attackers, capable of playing on either wing or in a central attacking role. That versatility, combined with his experience, has made him valuable for both club and country.
Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann has also underlined Gnabry's importance, calling him a key figure in the national team's hopes for the 2026 World Cup. Gnabry has scored 25 goals in 57 appearances for Germany and was again praised by Nagelsmann ahead of upcoming friendlies against Switzerland and Ghana.
Gnabry has come through a career that included spells at Arsenal, West Bromwich Albion and Werder Bremen before he established himself as a leading figure at Bayern.
Now, after the setbacks and doubts, he appears settled again.
Gnabry said he is simply happy to be part of Bayern's formidable attack, even as the team closes in on another milestone.
"You don't think of records while on the pitch," he said. "But 97 goals are outstanding, and we will happily push the record to new heights." ■