Bayern bosses defend their players: 'We will NOT accept this anymore!'
Speaking at an extraordinary press conference today, the Bayern München bosses took a swipe at the critics and said that enough is enough.
| Karl-Heinz Rummenigge. | Photo: Michael Lucan, CC-by-SA 3.0 |
And, speaking at an extraordinary press conference today, the Bayern München bosses Karl-Heinz Rummenigge (CEO), Uli Hoeness (president) and Hasan Salihamidzic (sporting director) made it clear that they believe the line has been crossed in the media lately.
"We got together on Monday after the game against the Netherlands and decided that we wouldn't accept what was being reported about it. It was basically an assessment of individual players - and especially players from Bayern München. Human dignity is inviolable! We will not accept this at Bayern München anymore," Karl-Heinz Rummenigge said and went on:
"I'm lost for words when it comes to what I read about Manuel Neuer. He has been named the best keeper of the world four times. And without any exaggeration, he has created his own role. There can't be two opinions about what Manuel has accomplished in the past years."
"When I read about 'old man football' in relation to our centre-backs Mats Hummels and Jerome Boateng, then I think 'is that still going on?' This also applies to Franck Ribery and Arjen Robben. They have contributed for a decade to help Bayern become a shining star in the football world. I would like to remind you that they have both won nearly everything. This age debate is outrageous and polemical."
Rummenigge ended his outburst by saying that Bayern will change their approach to the media.
"Long story short: Starting today, We're going to protect our players and our coach. We don't seek to blame the results on the media. Those who don't play well and lose don't expect to be praised, but there is a difference between serious and critical reporting," he said.
Read more:
Hoeness blasts Bernat: 'He almost single-handedly made us get knocked out'
Salihamidzic: 'I have been appalled by the rude and disrespectful reports'
Kovac: 'We have to stay true to our line'
