They say that 18 teams compete for the Bundesliga title, only for Bayern Munich to win it. This season the story remains the same as in previous seasons.
While their performances may be seen as being below expectations, Bayern Munich won the Bundesliga for a record 10th consecutive time with an eight-point gap.
However, with players like Niklas Sule leaving and Robert Lewandowski’s future uncertain, people aren’t as sure about their chances next season. Moreover, their rivals Borussia Dortmund have signed three promising players in Sule, Schlotterbeck and Adeyemi.
Uli Hoeness however doesn’t seem to think things will change. When asked by a reporter about his thoughts on Dortmund’s transfer activity, the former Bayern president bluntly replied, “Second Place is secured.”
Uli Hoeneß on Dortmund signing Süle, Schlotterbeck and Adeyemi: "Second place is secured" [Sky] pic.twitter.com/ZF92jbP9BT
Hoeness has been known for his no-nonsense comments, which are often popular among the club’s supporters. The German legend’s reply left Bayern fans buzzing on Twitter this time too. Fans were quick to appreciate the confidence and wittiness in Hoeness’s response.
Many felt the reply was perfect to counter Dortmund’s ‘self-victimising’ tendencies, despite their transfer activity and strong squad. Bayern fans (and some Dortmund fans) feel that the team instead of challenging for the trophy, paint themselves as victims and is content with coming in second place.
Dortmund’s manager Marco Rose did not seem fazed by Hoeness’s comment. Rose reiterated what many have been thinking by pointing out Bayern’s best defender (Sule) has joined his team, and the uncertainty revolving around Lewandowski means nothing is secure.
Marco Rose on Uli Hoeneß’s comment: “Sadly with their best defender gone, and one of their greatest attackers leaving, nothing is secured yet.” *smiles*#BVBpic.twitter.com/dzrfLgHzMw
Many people may find Hoeness’s comment arrogant and disrespectful. Often the club and its fans have been accused of being arrogant and over-confident in how they carry themselves.
Yet, one could also argue that their “arrogance” is merely confidence that has seen them winning 10 league titles and 2 Champions league titles over the last decade.
Next season is shaping up to be quite an interesting one for Bundesliga fans. There’s some hope for change from the same old story, but there’s a very good chance Hoeness’s words come true.
