Bayern legend and former club CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge sat down with AS on the eve of the Champions League semi-final second leg. Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, a living legend at Bayern Munich, who left his mark both on and off the pitch, now serves on its Supervisory Board. He discussed the upcoming clash between Bayern and Real Madrid, currently tied at 2-2, addressing not only the historic rivalry between the two clubs but also conveying a message to Florentino Pérez, urging the Real Madrid president to reconsider his plans for the Super League.
What were your impressions after the first leg?
Both teams performed admirably. While I would have preferred a 2-1 victory, I must acknowledge Madrid’s strong performance, deserving of the draw.
What crossed your mind when you witnessed Kroos’ pass to Vinicius?
To be frank, it unsettled me to witness such a precise pass slicing through our defense from such a distance. Additionally, Vinicius poses a significant challenge to stop, especially if given even a slight advantage.
Musiala also made an impact…
Indeed, Musiala displayed promise, but it’s crucial to temper our expectations and avoid excessive adulation at this stage of his career. While he possesses remarkable talent, he has yet to reach his full potential. Showering him with praise prematurely could be detrimental, fostering unrealistic expectations.
What are your thoughts on Bellingham?
Real Madrid deserves credit for securing his signing. He excels in scoring, assisting, running, tackling, and recovering the ball. His decision to join Madrid early on was undoubtedly a boon for them, much to Dortmund’s satisfaction, realizing Bayern was no longer in contention.
What does Bayern need to do in the second leg?
Having experienced the challenge firsthand, both as a player and in management, I understand the difficulty of facing Real Madrid at the Bernabéu. However, it’s not insurmountable. Leipzig demonstrated this in the round of 16, and my friend Pep Guardiola recently illustrated that causing trouble for Madrid at their home ground is feasible. Fortunately, away goals no longer carry double value, resetting the tie to 0-0. I maintain confidence in the Bayern squad’s performance throughout the Champions League campaign.
In Spain, many believed overcoming Manchester City was Real Madrid’s toughest challenge.
With all due respect, the clash between Bayern and Madrid epitomizes European football. This isn’t merely my assertion; history supports it. We’ve faced each other 27 times in Europe’s premier competition, unparalleled in frequency. Surely, that’s precisely what my friend Florentino Pérez desired, correct?
Are you referring to the Super League?
I’ve always maintained a positive relationship with Real Madrid, particularly with Florentino Pérez and Vice President Pedro López. While my appreciation and respect remain, I implore them to abandon their Super League ambitions. That’s all. Do you know the situation?
No, please elaborate…
We share a common challenge, yet our solutions differ. In an era where more clubs are owned by investors, it’s crucial to note that we’re not merely discussing billionaires but billionaires embraced by the Premier League. Moreover, English television revenues far surpass those of Spain or Germany, posing a significant disparity for clubs like Real Madrid and Bayern Munich. I believe this is Florentino’s primary concern. It’s not a battle against UEFA but rather against the prolonged inequality perpetuated by the Premier League.
Saudi Arabia also seeks to enter the fray.
Patience is key. While recent transfer market activities may raise eyebrows, predominantly focused on veteran players, I understand the allure for footballers nearing the end of their careers. However, the real concern arises if our youth are enticed to follow suit. Yet, I remain optimistic that they won’t compromise their careers for financial gain.
Do you anticipate Florentino changing his stance?
During our conversation on Tuesday, I urged him: “Florentino, return to the football family! Our family needs Madrid, and it needs you.” It’s essential to remember Florentino’s significance in football. Much like the admiration we held for Santiago Bernabéu, Florentino now occupies a similar echelon. Alongside Bernabéu, he’s among the most influential figures in Real Madrid’s history. Having interacted closely with him over the years through Bayern and the ECA, our only point of contention remains the Super League. The Champions League reigns supreme as the pinnacle competition for clubs, offering financial rewards and prestige. Everyone aspires to participate. Hence, my hope is for Florentino and Real Madrid to consider how they can reintegrate into UEFA’s fold.
A legacy steeped in epic battles between both clubs. Isn’t that so?
Indeed, all stemming from a significant misstep.
What do you mean?
It was a friendly match. I recall it vividly, as I played that day. We secured a 9-1 victory, which seemingly led to Boskov’s dismissal (although Madrid eventually reached the European Cup final). It was a humiliating defeat, compounded by catching them off-guard during their vacation while we had already undergone preseason training. However, our actions were misguided. Paul (Breitner) and I, after scoring, realized the folly of our actions, foreseeing the repercussions. Subsequently, during the Santiago Bernabéu Trophy, I found myself partnering with Klaus (Augenthaler) as a center-back, fearing Camacho’s retaliation. That marked the genesis of our rivalry. The notion of the “black beast” emerged, although I must admit our last such victory was in the 2012 semi-finals. Since then, the tables have turned, with Madrid assuming the role of our “white beast.”
And Real Madrid continued their Champions League dominance.
Real Madrid stands as the epitome of success and renown in football. While much emphasis is placed on UEFA’s club coefficient, the last decade’s standings hold more significance. Real Madrid leads, followed closely by Bayern. We’ve enjoyed success too, clinching the Champions League in 2013 and 2020. There’s no doubt that Wednesday’s match brings together the two most accomplished teams of the past decade.
The Bundesliga has also garnered considerable attention.
Back in 2013, I predicted a prolonged absence of German teams in the Champions League final, yet here we are, eleven years later, with the possibility of a German final. Additionally, Bayer Leverkusen stands on the cusp of the Europa League final. The Bundesliga has asserted itself internationally this season, earning the fifth Champions League spot for the upcoming edition. Otherwise, Dortmund would have faced significant challenges securing qualification.
Were you surprised by Xabi Alonso’s success at Leverkusen?
Yes and no. While assuming responsibility for Leverkusen in dire straits was unexpected, knowing him from his tenure at Bayern, I harbored no doubts regarding his coaching acumen. He had the privilege of working under world-class coaches like Guardiola, Anc
