Bayern president Herbert Hainer is tempting Thomas Müller with a specific position at the record champions – but names a clear obstacle
It is more than just a nice custom at FC Bayern for big names to return to responsible roles after their active careers. Franz Beckenbauer, Uli Hoeneß, Karl-Heinz Rummenigge – the history of the record champions is closely linked to former players who later shaped the face of the club in the management. Now the focus is shifting to the next generation
In an interview with tz, Bayern President Herbert Hainer brought a prominent name into play: Thomas Müller. Müller is an absolute identification figure for the club, knows the club inside out and enjoys enormous appeal – far beyond Munich
Interestingly, Hainer also believes that Philipp Lahm can play such a role alongside Müller
Müller is currently still under contract with the Vancouver Whitecaps, but the end of his career is approaching. Lahm, on the other hand, has long since ended his active career and has already gained experience in the organizational field, including as tournament director of EURO 2024. For Hainer, both are basically conceivable as future presidents of FC Bayern
Hainer curbs expectations: „…then it will be difficult“
However, the 71-year-old also curbed exaggerated expectations. He referred to a central obstacle that is often underestimated: the economic dimension. „If a footballer has earned 20 million a year and is now expected to work six days a week for a fraction of that, it will be difficult,“ explained Hainer
A management role at FC Bayern is associated with enormous responsibility, a high time commitment and constant public attention – but financially nowhere near comparable to the top salaries from active professional times. The step from top earner on the pitch to functionary at the club is therefore not just a sporting or emotional decision, but also a personal and economic one
Hainer makes it clear that the desire for former players in top positions is there, but it takes more than just love of the club and charisma. It’s about a long-term willingness to take on responsibility – regardless of the salary
Whether Müller or Lahm will actually move to the top of the club one day remains to be seen.