"Times have changed": Freund opens up about Uli Hoeneß | OneFootball

Even after stepping back from the front line, Uli Hoeneß remains the defining face of FC Bayern. This was confirmed by sporting director Christoph Freund, who, on the show Sport und Talk from Hangar-7 on Servus TV, offered rare insights into working with the club icon.

Freund, who has been with the German record champions since 2023, emphasized the continued strong role of the honorary president. “No one represents FC Bayern Munich like Uli Hoeneß. He always voices his opinion—internally and externally. That’s just part of it,” explained the 48-year-old.

According to Freund, Hoeneß still regularly involves himself in the club’s affairs—with clear views, but also with great passion for the club. “He always wants only the best for FC Bayern Munich and puts a lot of thought into things. We have a very good exchange and sometimes have controversial discussions.”

Between Tradition and Modernity

Photo: IMAGO

Things got especially interesting when Freund spoke about the differences between the old and new generations of decision-makers. “He tells us what they always used to do and how things should still be done now. But times have changed,” said the sporting director.

With this, Freund alludes to the profound changes in modern football—from skyrocketing transfer fees to high agent commissions and the growing influence of international investors. Uli Hoeneß also observes these developments very closely, but naturally has a different perspective on some processes.

However, Freund does not see this as a burden, but as an enrichment: “It’s better this way, when there are more discussions, because then things move—and a bit of friction often leads to good results.”

This statement makes it clear that within the club, there is indeed open and passionate debate—in the interest of finding the best solution for the club.

Freund and Hoeneß – Two Generations, One Goal

Uli Hoeneß, honorary president of FC Bayern since 2019, continues to pull the strings behind the scenes. There is hardly a personnel or transfer decision on which he does not form an opinion. His presence at supervisory board meetings, his interviews, and his unmistakable way of addressing things continue to make him the club’s most important figure of identification.

Already in September, Hoeneß himself made it clear that friction is, for him, an essential part of successful club work: “Such a tough job leads to confrontations. Karl-Heinz Rummenigge and I often argued like cat and dog. But when the door closed behind us, it was okay again.” With a smile, he added with regard to sporting director Max Eberl: “Max is quite sensitive about that.”

Even though Freund and Hoeneß have different approaches, they are united by their shared passion for the club. The sporting director emphasized that he greatly values the experience and energy of the honorary president.

“Uli has written an incredible story with this club,” said Freund. “He has experienced everything there is to experience in football. His opinion is always valuable, even if you sometimes have a different view.”

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.