Versatile Bayern Munich star David Alaba admits he is disappointed with the departure of Mario Gotze, after the German playmaker returned to Borussia Dortmund.
Gotze returned to Dortmund after three years at Bayern where, despite winning the Bundesliga ever year, couldn't quite establish himself consistently during his time at the Allianz Arena.
However, Alaba is still saddened by Gotze's exit after forming a close friendship with him during their time as teammates.
"For me it's kind of sad, because I got along with him pretty well. Even off the pitch," Alaba said.
"But he made his decision and I wish him all the best."
Gotze is one of several high-profile acquisitions made by Dortmund so far this summer, with the club also securing deals for Andre Schurrle, Ousmane Dembele and Marc Bartra.
Thomas Tuchel's side hammered Manchester United 4-1 in the International Champions Cup on Friday and Alaba admits he is wary of the threat they pose in dethroning Bayern this season, after three years of dominance from the Bavarians.
"The beginning of every season isn't easy, especially with Dortmund in our league," he said.
#WorldCup winners ... assemble!
Andre Schurrle has joined Mario Gotze at @BVB pic.twitter.com/qVzAjYmDyJ
"They want to give us a hard time of course, but we want to compete."
Gotze meanwhile has attempted to win back the hearts of Dortmund fans who were less than thrilled to see one of their biggest stars leave for their bitter rivals in 2013, posting a message on social media.
"When I switched to Bayern in 2013 it was a conscious decision which I will not hide myself behind," Gotze wrote.
"Today, three years later and at 24, I look at that decision in a different light. It was not a decision I would make today,"? he said.
"I can understand many fans could not accept my decision,"? he added. "I wouldn't reach it today either."?
Bayern have lost an 'important player' in Gotze - Alaba https://t.co/zKJtTKQJEQ pic.twitter.com/6NvX71B5eY