Daniel Peretz: "It Is Time for Redemption"

Daniel Peretz is embarking on a new path: after becoming a regular player for Southampton following his move from Bayern Munich, the Israeli goalkeeper has already set his main goal — to return the English club to the Premier League.

In an interview with SPOX, he spoke about the disappointment of the previous season's end, the decision to stay in England, and the special time spent alongside Manuel Neuer.

"The end of last season left a bitter taste," said Peretz. "But what happened two months ago is not the end. Now it is time for redemption. We are very hungry, ready for the new season, and giving everything we have. For us, this is unfinished business."

Peretz, 26, joined Southampton in the last January transfer window on loan from Bayern Munich, but soon became the starting goalkeeper and a significant figure in the team's campaign. His performance between the posts helped the "Saints" move away from the danger zone and reach the playoffs for promotion to the Championship.

In the playoff stage, Southampton managed to get past Middlesbrough in the semifinals, but due to a spying scandal that rocked the club, they did not appear in the final at Wembley, and Hull City advanced in their place. Now, with the mission uncompleted, Peretz and the team hope to go all the way in the upcoming season.

The impression made by the Israeli goalkeeper led the club to turn the loan into a permanent deal. Southampton purchased Peretz from Bayern for eight million euros and signed him to a long-term contract until 2030.

Peretz explained why he chose to continue specifically at the English club: "I feel at home here. And when you feel at home, you should stay. I am sure this is the right decision. My heart is here."

The Israeli goalkeeper also addressed his two years at Bayern Munich and the great honor of working alongside one of the greatest goalkeepers in the history of the game, Manuel Neuer. For Peretz, it was the fulfillment of a personal dream.

"Manu was my biggest idol. He is one of the main reasons I became a goalkeeper. I was very excited to meet him before the move, and he turned out to be a great person. He helped me a lot, gave me tips and guidance, and I learned things from him that helped me both in my career and in life."

Peretz arrived at Bayern in the summer of 2023 from Maccabi Tel Aviv with high expectations, but did not manage to become the team's top goalkeeper. Despite this, he summarizes his time in Germany as an experience that shaped him: "I imagined my time there differently, but it strengthened me mentally."