Bayern Munich stars back Niko Kovac after Benfica win
Contrary to what some tabloids may have you believe, several Bayern Munich stars have shown support for coach Niko Kovac.
Niko Kovac silenced his critics (for now) yesterday with an emphatic 5-1 victory at home over Benfica. Bayern Munich completely dominated their opposition thanks to some vintage peformances from Arjen Robben, Robert Lewandowski and a few others.
The result could hardly have been better, and couldn’t have come at a more appropriate time for Niko Kovac. The Croatian has been under heavy criticism for most of the season, especially so after his side’s disappointing 3-3 draw against Fortuna Dusseldorf over the weekend.
Contrary to the reports of some German news outlets (*cough* Bild *cough*), many Bayern stars have publicly backed their manager. Manuel Neuer began things over the weekend, explaining to the media that Bayern would have won the match against Dusseldorf if his teammates would have stuck to Niko Kovac’s game plan.
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Arjen Robben continued the theme after yesterday’s match, in which he scored two important goals. The Dutchman said he was happy for the team’s performance, particularly because of what it meant for Kovac. (via Omnisport)
"“Today was a victory for the team, for the coach, for the whole club and especially for the fans.“Above all I was happy for the coach today. As a human, he deserves it, and I hope we can continue this way.”"
Thomas Muller, meanwhile, echoed the sentiments of his long-standing teammate. Like Robben, he was straightforward in his support for Niko Kovac. (via Goal)
"“Of course, this is good for us, but also for the coach. Every one of us wants success for the club and wants to show that we stand behind the coach.”"
After the rampant speculation surrounding his future in the past few weeks, Kovac will no doubt be glad to hear his players back him publicly. The Croatian still isn’t completely in the clear yet, but his job is safe for now.
Bayern’s draw this past weekend had many thinking the end was in sight for Kovac, and Arsene Wenger was heavily touted as his future replacement. Hasan Salihamidzic, however, confirmed that Kovac’s job is safe for now and denied that Bayern have made any serious inquiries into a managerial change.
Next. Niko Kovac is confident Bayern Munich can turn things around. dark
The Bavarians travel to Werder Bremen this weekend in an important Bundesliga match. Niko Kovac and Co. will be for another big win to build momentum heading into the last handful of games before the winter break.