Miroslav Klose reveals reason behind rejecting U-19 role at Bayern Munich

Miroslav Klose has revealed the reason behind rejecting the role of U-19 coach at Bayern Munich this summer.

Bayern Munich has made numerous changes to their youth teams this summer. There have been managerial changes in various youth teams at the club. Miroslav Klose was also expected to get a promotion as the club wanted him to coach the U-19 team after Sebastian Hoeness moved up the ladder to manage Bayern Munich II.

After Klose’s impressive season with the U-17 team, Hasan Salihamidzic tried to convince him to start coaching the U-19 team. However, the former German striker was not keen on this role, which eventually led to the appointment of Martin Demichelis.

Klose’s refusal to this offer led to speculation that the German striker is not on the same page with Salihamidzic. During an interview with Kicker, Klose dismissed these rumors. He further added that he was not ready for this new role.

"“Absolutely nonsense, even if it was presented in public. There were not two stubborn heads meeting each other. I’m just glad that I can continue to train this team, this solution is the best for all sides.”“For me, the step to U 19 would have come too early. When I do something, I have to be 100 percent confident to get the best performance and I have a clear plan for my career.”"

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Klose remained tight-lipped when asked about a new contract renewal with Bayern. He has one year left on his contract. The former German striker is in no rush to extend his contract as he is currently enjoying coaching the younger players. Klose enjoyed a successful debut campaign with the U-17 team as they clinched the league title and did fairly well in the cup competitions.

In this interview, Klose also spoke about the drastic changes in the younger players compared to his youth days. He believes that younger players don’t have enough passion due to the stress of various other things in their life.

Apart from coaching changes, Bayern also had numerous departures in youth teams. Some young players have departed for temporary deals, while others have sealed permanent moves. Woo-Yeong Jeong was the most high profile departure in the reserves team. The South Korean forward completed a permanent move to Freiburg, but Die Roten reportedly have a buyback clause in this deal.

The German club decided to add some fresh talent to these squads. Sarpreet Singh and Leon Dajaku have joined Die Roten’s reserves team, while former Chelsea youth players Jamal Musiala and Bright Arrey-Mbi will play in the U-17 team. Die Roten is also reportedly trying to sign Celtic’s teenage defender Liam Morrison. Bayern might make more additions to the reserves team after the team gained promotion to the third division.