Bayern Munich president Uli Hoeness has revealed that player unrest was a significant factor in the sacking of former manager Niko Kovac.
The Croatian was relieved of his duties following the 5-1 mauling at the hands of Eintracht Frankfurt, after a poor start to the season, and Hoeness’ comments imply that some players had lost faith in Kovac’s methods.
Speaking in the ZDF Sport Studio, as reported by Goal, the club president stated: “There have certainly been currents within the team that wanted Kovac gone, that’s why the leadership reacted accordingly.”
Kovac’s assistant Hansi Flick was named interim coach and has since guided Die Roten to Champions League victory over Olympiacos and a 4-0 humbling of Bundesliga rivals Borussia Dortmund. The 54-year-old will be the first candidate on the club’s list, with Hoeness adding: “During the talks, which are due in the next few weeks, we will certainly talk first about Hansi Flick.
“One thing is clear: after such an outstanding week, with two convincing wins, you cannot say that we’re going to send Hansi Flick away and get someone who might only be able to work for a few months.”
With qualification to the Champions League knockout stage secured and Bayern sitting third in the Bundesliga table, there’s a greater air of positivity around the Allianz Arena and it’s easy to understand Hoeness’ patience in appointing a permanent successor.
With some of the names in the frame unlikely to be available in the immediate future – such as Ajax’s Erik ten Hag and PSG’s Thomas Tuchel – Flick could find himself with an extended chance to prove himself in the coming weeks.
Let’
