Bayern boss hints: Rummenigge and Hoeneß could retire | OneFootball

Uli Hoeneß and Karl-Heinz Rummenigge are names that are inextricably linked to the success story of FC Bayern. For decades, they steered the fortunes of the German record champions, shaped structures, made fundamental decisions and shaped the club into a top European club. But how great is their influence today, now that both are no longer involved in day-to-day operations?

Sports Director Christoph Freund spoke openly about the current balance of power at Säbener Straße – and painted a differentiated picture. The Austrian made it clear that Hoeneß and Rummenigge continue to play an important role, albeit in a clearly defined function. „There is always a good exchange that enriches FC Bayern. We would be stupid if we didn’t draw on this experience,“ explained the Austrian. The decades of expertise of the two supervisory board members is an enormous added value, especially in strategic matters

At the same time, Freund made it unmistakably clear that times have changed. „Transfer activities have changed. It’s no longer like 20 or 30 years ago. That’s why there’s a different management now,“ he emphasised. Today, decisions are made in different structures, with clear responsibilities and a modern focus. „I believe that FC Bayern is currently on a good footing,“ Freund continued

No interference, but an honest exchange

photo: IMAGO

The sports director was particularly clear on the subject of day-to-day business. Freund firmly rejected the often-circulated image that Hoeneß and Rummenigge are still pulling the strings in the background. „But the way it is often portrayed that they are involved in day-to-day business – that is no longer the case. That is not how it should be and they no longer want it to be,“ he clarified

Nevertheless, the exchange is intensive and open. Hoeneß and Rummenigge want to be informed, not out of a need for control, but out of a deep connection to the club. „Of course they want to be informed, FC Bayern is extremely close to their hearts,“ explained Freund. It is precisely this emotional connection that ensures that discussions are not always harmonious – which is expressly positive from his point of view

Controversial discussions as a strength

Freund made no secret of the fact that different opinions also clash behind closed doors. „There is always a healthy exchange. It works well the way it is at the moment. Even if you sometimes have different opinions or discussions. That is very important,“ said the sports director. For him, friction and critical dialogue are an essential part of a successful club

Freund is currently working intensively on the squad for the coming season together with sporting director Max Eberl and CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen. A key point here is that the team is to be put together earlier than in previous years. This approach is also not without consultation with Hoeneß and Rummenigge, whose experience is particularly valued when it comes to long-term decisions

Despite all the upheaval, Freund is convinced that FC Bayern is well equipped for the coming years. „As far as the next few years are concerned, FC Bayern sees itself well positioned for the future, including with the campus and the people who work there,“ he explained. In his view, the work with young talent, modern squad planning and clear responsibilities form a stable basis

In the end, according to Freund, it comes down to the people involved. „The people involved are always the decisive factor – those who have heart and passion for the club. That is the most important thing and we are on the right track.“ Words that show: Hoeneß and Rummenigge are still present at FC Bayern – not as string-pullers, but as experienced advisors in a club that has consciously developed further.