In a recent interview with Kicker Magazine, former Bayern Munich board chairman Rummenigge gave insights into the players' complaints about the heavy fixtures, the new Champions League format, the future and performance of Bayern's players, as well as the team's tactics.
Schedule Intensity and Player Salaries
Rummenigge expressed understanding for the complaints of England players about the intensive fixtures, but he also pointed out that players and their agents demand high salaries, forcing clubs to generate more income, which often comes from increasing the number of matches. He called on all parties to calmly discuss and seek a more serious and rational mechanism to balance commercial and competitive demands.
New Champions League system
Rummenigge has expressed his support for the new Champions League system, arguing that the group stage of the old system was too boring, while the new system makes it more difficult to advance and improves the spectacle of the matches. He revealed that the new format was inspired by suggestions from Borussia Dortmund's professional players and believes that fans will grow to appreciate the change.
Neuer and Muller
Speaking about Neuer, Rummenigge called him one of the greatest transfers in Bayern's history and a great contributor to the team, and revealed that the club is considering whether to extend his contract. On Thomas Muller, Rummenigge described him as one of Bayern's legends and suggested that veterans such as Muller should consider a second career in management.
Levan and Kane
Rummenigge highly praised Levan's goal-scoring ability and honesty and said that Levan is an important advisor to the club. For Kane, Rummenigge has high hopes and encouraged him to stay patient and believe that he will be successful at Bayern.
Frick
Rummenigge marveled at Frick's coaching success at Bayern and thought it was a shame that he left the club. He commented on Frick's equally successful stint at Barcelona and revealed that Bayern never actively interfered in the selection process.
Kompany and Bayern tactics
On Kompany's coaching style, Rummenigge said he understands the criticism that he is "too risky", but emphasized that Bayern's success stems from its philosophy of attacking, possession-dominated soccer. He quoted Pep Guardiola's words, emphasizing that the quality of the game determines the outcome, rather than relying solely on the outcome of the game.
Team lineups and defense
Rummenigge expressed his satisfaction with the team's current double back combination of Kimmich and Pavlovic, and believes that one should not easily interfere with the coach's tactical arrangements. He also pointed out that Bayern's defensive performance against Eintracht Frankfurt was not the best, but believes that the team can adjust and improve the quality of defense.
