Just a few months ago, Max Eberl was under immense pressure at FC Bayern. Since then, the tide has completely turned. Club president Uli Hoeneß now puts the chances of a contract extension at “100 percent.” The sporting director has regained support by maintaining a clear course and delivering impressive transfer work.
As recently as the end of May, Hoeneß had told SPIEGEL that Eberl’s chances of a contract extension were only “60 to 40.” After a strong transfer window and a clear direction in squad planning, there’s no trace of that skepticism left. During the friendly against FC Rottach-Egern, Hoeneß made it unmistakably clear: “Right now, I believe it’s 100 percent.”
Early transfers and clear squad planning are winning people over
One of the main reasons for the shift in sentiment is the work on the transfer market. With Nathaniel Brown and Ismael Saibari, Munich signed their two top targets early on—entirely in line with Hoeneß’s philosophy, as he has always placed great value on planning certainty.
Eberl has also made progress on the outgoing front. Sales of young talents and bench players have already brought more than 40 million euros into the club’s coffers. At the same time, the departures of Thomas Müller, Leroy Sané, and Leon Goretzka have significantly reduced payroll costs—a key objective of the club’s leadership.
Although João Palhinha, Sacha Boey, and Bryan Zaragoza remain on the list of potential sales candidates, there is no internal pressure to sell. Hoeneß recently made it clear that existing contracts will be honored. If no suitable buyer is found, the players will remain at FC Bayern.
Eberl Takes a Firmer Stance
In addition to his work on the field, Eberl’s changed demeanor is also striking. While he often took a diplomatic approach during his early days in Munich, the sporting director is now taking a much more assertive stance.
In particular, his sharp criticism of FIFA’s investor plans has recently drawn attention. Eberl described the development as “shameful” and even stated, “It disgusts me.” With this clear stance, he struck a chord with many fans and observers.
Eberl is now speaking plainly when it comes to roster planning as well. Players like Palhinha, Boey, and Zaragoza were openly informed that they no longer have a future with the team under Vincent Kompany. At the same time, the sporting director projects a sense of calm and composure to the outside world. In Munich, Eberl is now being called “Mini-Hoeneß.”
Regarding his own contract situation, he recently stated that his sole responsibility is to assemble a successful squad. Those in charge would decide on everything else.
With the hiring of Kompany, the development of a clear sporting vision, and a transfer window that has been impressive so far, Eberl has earned a great deal of internal credibility. After months of discussions, the 52-year-old seems to have finally found his footing at FC Bayern—and now enjoys the backing of the club’s most important decision-makers.