By Martin Graham
Bayern Munich and head coach Vincent Kompany have attracted widespread praise for their outstanding opening to the campaign. The German champions have secured victories in all 11 of their fixtures across every competition so far. Matchday seven of the Bundesliga held particular significance, as Bayern hosted long-time rivals Borussia Dortmund at the Allianz Arena.
Kompany’s side prevailed in Der Klassiker, further strengthening their impressive start to the season. However, the occasion was not solely about the football — supporters used the high-profile match to express their discontent over a controversial matter connected to the club.
Fans protest over Boateng’s coaching plans
Former Bayern and Germany defender Jérôme Boateng recently declared his retirement from professional football. In the weeks leading up to that announcement, he had been seen training at Sabener Strasse. The ex-international now intends to pursue a coaching path. Kompany previously stated that Boateng could complete an internship with the team, citing his lengthy association with Bayern.
This stance has not been well received by the supporters. Boateng was found guilty of domestic violence against his ex-girlfriend and, last year, received a suspended fine and warning from the Munich district court for premeditated bodily harm. Many fans are firmly opposed to the idea of the club maintaining any relationship with him.
A petition was launched to challenge the plan for Boateng’s internship, and according to Sky News, it had gathered 2,200 signatures by Friday.
Message from the stands and Kompany’s response
During Der Klassiker, the Sudkurve displayed a prominent banner that read: “Whoever gives the perpetrator space bears the guilt.” Boateng had previously stated that Kompany had already agreed to the internship, though no date had been set. Bayern declined to issue a statement regarding the protests that took place during the match.
This is not the first time fans have expressed opposition. Two years earlier, when the club considered re-signing Boateng under Thomas Tuchel, supporters voiced similar concerns.
In the post-match press conference, Kompany was questioned about the situation. He did not address the protest directly, instead explaining that Boateng would merely observe three training sessions and downplayed the matter as insignificant.
For many supporters, however, the issue reflects poorly on the club’s values. They believe Bayern should have severed ties with Boateng long ago and are prepared to continue their protests if the club follows through with the internship plan.
