Fernando Carro has once again caused a stir with his clear words. The managing director of Bayer Leverkusen has publicly rejected FC Bayern – and in doing so has given us a deep insight
Many players and managers in soccer dream of working for FC Bayern one day. This is obviously not the case for Fernando Carro. The 61-year-old has repeatedly lashed out verbally against the German record champions in recent years – and is staying true to himself this time too
In the SPIELMACHER podcast, Carro was asked specifically whether he could imagine a professional future at FC Bayern. His answer was short and unequivocal: „I’m a Leverkusen player“
According to his own statements, Carro is not alone in this clear stance. The Leverkusen boss hinted that other people in charge of the works club have also turned down offers from Munich in the past. „Rudi (editor’s note: Rudi Völler) didn’t do it, Simon (editor’s note: Simon Rolfes) didn’t do it. Although they had the offers. From what I hear,“ explained the Spaniard
„Certain arrogance“: Carro describes Bayern culture
Carro’s statements became particularly explosive when he addressed the fundamental differences between the two clubs. The 61-year-old had words of praise for the work of the Munich management team. „They’ve done a great job, all of them. Herbert Hainer, Uli Hoeneß, Kalle Rummenigge, they’re doing a great job,“ Carro emphasized
Nevertheless, he sees clear differences in the club culture. „But the club’s internal culture is already shaped in such a way that they are used to winning. That perhaps makes it easier to win. I think it’s this certain arrogance or self-confidence that such clubs have.“
This assessment is unlikely to go unnoticed at Säbener Straße. While Carro expressly acknowledges FC Bayern’s sporting successes, his words also contain a clear criticism. The balance between self-image and arrogance – a topic that has accompanied the record champions for years
The fact that the relationship between Leverkusen and Bayern has recently been characterized by sporting rivalry anyway makes the issue even more explosive
Carro’s statements now add a further emotional component to this development. One thing is clear: the verbal spikes from Leverkusen are likely to be closely noted in Munich – and could further fuel the already tense rivalry.