Bayern Munich playmaker Mario Gotze has revealed that he has become a much fitter player since making his move from Borussia Dortmund to the Bavarians.
The Germany international's career at Bayern did not get off to the best of starts as he was plagued by injuries, but he has since cemented his place in the starting lineup.
Gotze also capped off a successful year by scoring the winning goal in the World Cup final against Argentina.
The midfielder also believes that Pep Guardiola is the right manager to bring the club bigger successes.
"My first year in Munich was definitely not easy. When I came here, Bayern had just won the treble," the 22-year-old told ESPN.
"I was injured, then I played two games and was injured again for the following three matches. I spent three or four months living in a hotel. All of this, combined with adjusting from life at Dortmund, made it very difficult for me. But I think I've adapted quite well.
"I would not say that I've changed that much but I'm in better shape than I was 18 months ago. Fitness is the most important aspect in this sport. You've got to feel good. I want to always improve and develop here, and Guardiola is the right coach to do this under."
Bayern will be looking to maintain their eight-point lead at the top of the Bundesliga table when they face Hamburg on Saturday.
Sam McEvoy
