Bayern Munich legend hails Real Madrid president: ‘Worth his weight in gold’ | OneFootball

The upcoming UEFA Champions League quarter-final between Real Madrid and Bayern Munich is already generating serious attention, even with the international break ongoing.

Amid the growing anticipation, German legend Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has shared his thoughts on several topics surrounding Real Madrid, starting with the club’s earlier managerial decision involving Xabi Alonso.

Reflecting on Alonso’s departure and the circumstances around it, Rummenigge admitted he had sympathy for the Spaniard after his previous success in Germany.

“I felt sorry for him. He took on the challenge with great ambition after his successful spell at Leverkusen. 

“But when performance falls short of expectations, the remedy is usually a change of manager. 

“Arbeloa has hit the right note again and the team is back to performing at the highest level. But I’m convinced that Xabi Alonso will make his mark,” he told AS.

On Florentino Perez

The Bayern icon also took the opportunity to speak about Florentino Peérez, highlighting the impact the Real Madrid president has had on the club’s resurgence.

While discussing Madrid’s current standing in European football, he said,

“He is worth his weight in gold and has restored Madrid to the heights they only reached under Bernabeu.”

Rummenigge has nothing but praise for Perez. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

Rummenigge also addressed the situation involving European football politics, particularly the Super League debate. 

After recent discussions with Aleksander Ceferin, he suggested that tensions have eased and relations have improved.

“I recently spoke with President Ceferin during the UEFA General Assembly in Brussels and he emphasised to me that everyone was pleased that Real Madrid had returned to the football family. 

“It is also good for Madrid and Florentino, as conflicts help no one,” he said.

On Vinicius Jr.

Finally, the focus shifted to Vinicius Jr., with speculation continuing around his future. 

When asked whether Bayern could ever attempt to sign the Brazilian, he stated:

“He’s priceless and he’s already playing for the ideal club. I wouldn’t be surprised if he were one of Florentino’s favourite players. 

“I’ve heard that clubs from Saudi Arabia are knocking on the door, but I don’t think he’ll end up leaving. 

“Florentino is a football connoisseur and will do everything possible to keep him,” he concluded.