Ahead of the Champions League clash against Real Madrid, Uli Hoeneß has commented on FC Bayern’s starting position – giving a clear but differentiated assessment. The honorary president sees the Munich team on the right track, but warns against the experience of the royals
At an event at the Frankfurt School of Finance & Management, Hoeneß spoke openly about the German record champions‘ chances in the quarter-finals, initially surprising his audience with a critical analysis of their opponents: „They don’t play that good soccer, but they are outstanding in terms of routine, they are fit to the point.“
It is precisely this mixture that makes Real Madrid so dangerous. Despite their fluctuating performances in the league, the Spaniards are able to show their class in the decisive moments. „Once again, they are not that good in the championship, but they can live off their wealth of experience,“ said Hoeneß
Respect for Real – but Bayern at eye level
Despite his respect for the record Champions League winners, Hoeneß does not see FC Bayern in the underdog role. On the contrary: „But we haven’t had such great chances in terms of playing quality for a long time as we have this year.“
Nevertheless, the 74-year-old urged caution, saying that progressing is anything but a foregone conclusion. „It’s totally presumptuous,“ he explained with a view to possible premature praise
This assessment reflects the current situation: Bayern are in strong form, but in Real Madrid they face an opponent with enormous experience, especially in knockout matches
Hoeneß remains realistic
Hoeneß was also deliberately cautious when it came to his overall goals for the season. Although FC Bayern still has a chance of winning the treble, he did not want to fuel exaggerated expectations. „That’s too optimistic,“ he said when asked about three possible titles
In the Bundesliga, however, the situation is clear from his point of view. With a nine-point lead over Borussia Dortmund, Munich see themselves on the way to the next championship. „I would say we will be German champions,“ Hoeneß said confidently
In the DFB Cup, however, Bayer Leverkusen awaits in the semi-finals – a challenging task. „That will be difficult,“ emphasized the former Bayern manager
And everything remains open for him in the Champions League too: „You can’t say you’ll win the Champions League.“
Hoeneß’s message is clear: FC Bayern has great potential this season – but it is not just form that is decisive in the duel with Real Madrid, but above all experience, efficiency and nerves of steel.