Bayern Munich have officially confirmed that former defender Jerome Boateng will not be returning to the club for a planned coaching internship, following strong opposition from supporters.
Head coach Vincent Kompany had initially invited Boateng to join the German champions for “a few weeks of internship” during a September press conference, according to Merkur. However, after widespread backlash from fans, the club announced on Saturday evening that the arrangement had been cancelled.
Background to the Controversy
The protests stem from a 2024 Munich court ruling that found Boateng guilty of premeditated bodily harm against his former partner in 2018. The court issued a warning and a suspended fine of €200,000, as reported by Reuters. Boateng was also ordered to donate €100,000 to charity but did not receive a criminal record as part of the verdict.
The case was the result of an appeal following an earlier 2021 conviction for domestic violence—allegations that Boateng has consistently denied.
Fan Backlash and Club Response
The announcement of Boateng’s potential return triggered protests among Bayern Munich supporters. During recent matches, including the Bundesliga clash with Borussia Dortmund, fans displayed banners denouncing the decision.
Boateng, who retired from professional football at the end of September, had been offered the opportunity to observe training sessions as part of his transition into coaching. Bayern CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen previously described the situation as “a complicated case,” emphasizing that while the club supported rehabilitation, no formal employment agreement existed with Boateng.
“I believe every person deserves a chance at rehabilitation,” Dreesen told iMiaSanMia. “Jerome was a long-time player who won many titles with us. Allowing him to observe training sessions would have been acceptable in that context.”
Despite these remarks, protests continued—most notably during Bayern’s Champions League fixture against Club Brugge—where fans displayed anti-domestic violence messages.
Official Decision and Statements
Following Bayern’s match against Borussia Mönchengladbach on Saturday, the club issued a statement confirming that Boateng would not undertake the internship.
“In a constructive discussion between FC Bayern and Jerome Boateng this week, both parties agreed that he will not complete an internship at the club. Jerome feels deeply connected to FC Bayern and does not wish for the club to suffer any harm due to the current public debate,” the statement read.
Boateng also released a personal statement via Instagram, expressing gratitude to the club and its supporters:
“Dear FC Bayern and dear Vincent, after recent discussions about me, I’ve decided to focus on my current projects — my A license, RYZR, and Arena2. Your focus should remain on the pitch and on continuing this incredible run of 13 consecutive wins.
I’m very grateful for the trust and opportunity you offered. I wish the team success for the rest of the season and thank all the fans who have shown me support.”
Boateng’s Career Legacy
During his decade-long tenure at Bayern Munich from 2011 to 2021, Boateng made over 200 appearances, winning numerous domestic and international titles. He also represented Hertha Berlin, Hamburg, and Manchester City, while earning 76 caps for the German national team and winning the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
Source: modernghana
Comments
Post a Comment