Thiago Alcantara backs Niko Kovac to enjoy more success at Bayern Munich
Thiago Alcantara believes Niko Kovac is the right manager for Bayern Munich as he backs him to enjoy more success this season.
Niko Kovac endured a tough debut season at Bayern Munich. The Croatian manager was under pressure throughout the season. There was constant speculation about his future at the club as Die Roten delivered inconsistent performances. He was able to weather the storm and eventually help Bayern to clinch the domestic double.
Apart from the poor performances, there were reports in Germany suggesting that numerous players were unhappy with Kovac’s methods. The Croatian dismissed these reports immediately, but speculation about a disgruntled dressing room continued throughout the season.
Thiago Alcantara was one of the key players for Kovac last summer. Speaking to Spox, Thiago also highlighted the key differences between Kovac and Pep Guardiola. The Spaniard is enjoying life under the Croatian manager and backs him to win more trophies at Bayern.
"“Pep works a lot with videos and explains, for example, exactly where playable spaces are and why you should do certain things. Niko is different, he gives you more freedom. He wants you to make your own choices in the games.”“Niko is a young coach, he wants to win all titles with Bayern, he wants to grow with the club. He is doing a great job. We all like him.”"
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The Spanish midfielder also admitted that Philipp Lahm impressed him the most when he arrived in Bavaria. Thiago struggled with serious injuries at the start of his Bayern career, but he is confident about being fit throughout the campaign. The Spaniard managed to make 41 appearances for Die Roten last season.
Thiago was heavily linked with a move away from Bayern last summer. The reports in Germany suggested that the Bundesliga champions were ready to listen to offers for him. However, there were no concrete offers for him and he ended up becoming Kovac’s most important player in central midfield. The Spanish midfielder is completely settled in Bavaria and will be open to extending his stay at the club.
Kovac meanwhile will be looking to build on last season and defend the domestic titles. The Croatian also needs to improve in the European games. Die Roten was knocked out of Champions League in the round of 16 last season. Kovac was heavily criticized after the German team’s timid display against Liverpool at Allianz Arena.
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Bayern Munich is set to play their final friendly game later today as they host Fenerbahce in the Audi Cup. The German champions will then gear up for first Der Klassiker of the season in the DFL Supercup on August 4. Die Roten will be hoping to hit the ground running straight away after encouraging performances in the pre-season friendlies.