NewsMax Eberl: “We’re rebuilding Bayern with balance, clarity, and conviction”
Max Eberl, Bayern Munich’s sporting director since March 2024, opened up about his first 18 months in charge in an extensive interview with 11Freunde. From complex transfer windows and Uli Hoeneß’s outspoken advice to Bayern’s internal renewal under Vincent Kompany, Eberl outlined a strategy defined by calmness, cooperation, and conviction.
Building stability after a turbulent start
Eberl acknowledged that his early tenure at Bayern coincided with one of the club’s most challenging transitional phases. Between a coaching search, injuries to key players, and transfer negotiations, the months after his arrival were defined by intensity rather than calm.
“Of course it was an intense phase, because we started the season with three injured starters, and Kingsley Coman expressed his desire to move to Saudi Arabia right at the end. But as a club, we had a clear plan for how to strengthen our squad, and we implemented it.” — Max Eberl
That plan included key free transfers such as Jonathan Tah and Tom Bischof, as well as the signing of Luis Díaz in mid-July — a player whose energy and pressing profile fit Kompany’s tactical vision perfectly.
Inside Bayern’s transfer strategy
Eberl emphasized that Bayern’s modern transfer work is driven less by name recognition and more by data and internal analysis.
“Many names were circulating that were never a topic of discussion for us. Some people automatically consider someone who can dribble or score a lot of goals a candidate for Bayern. Less visible factors such as running stats or injury record are almost never mentioned.” — Max Eberl
He explained that alongside Christoph Freund and Vincent Kompany, Bayern’s recruitment team now operates with strict internal coordination and a clear process for final approvals with CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen and the supervisory board led by Herbert Hainer, Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, and Uli Hoeneß.
The cornerstone players of Bayern’s new era
Asked which players were “must-haves” for the club’s future, Eberl immediately pointed to three names: Jamal Musiala, Alphonso Davies, and Joshua Kimmich. Keeping them, he said, was a cornerstone decision that reflects Bayern’s next cycle of leadership and identity.
“Jamal and Phonzy, plus Jo Kimmich as the future captain. These three are important cornerstones for FC Bayern’s sporting future.” — Max Eberl
He also confirmed that discussions with Leroy Sané had taken place, but the winger informed Bayern in May that he intended to leave. That led directly to the signing of Luis Díaz, whom Eberl described as “a perfect tactical fit” because of his endurance and defensive contribution.
“He covers between 11 and 13 kilometers per game — that’s exactly what we wanted for our game. It’s apparent that Harry Kane is blossoming even more when playing alongside Luis.” — Max Eberl
Florian Wirtz, Nick Woltemade, and Bayern’s financial limits
Eberl acknowledged Bayern’s pursuit of Florian Wirtz and Nick Woltemade, but underlined the club’s self-imposed budget discipline and the realities of modern football economics.
“With Wirtz, everyone immediately agreed that we wanted to bring him to Bayern. It was clear that everyone at the club would throw everything into convincing him.” — Max Eberl
Ultimately, Leverkusen’s high valuation and competition from abroad made the transfer difficult, though Bayern reserved special financial flexibility for Wirtz — a sign of his exceptional status. For Woltemade, the club reached its transfer fee limit and chose not to exceed it.
Thomas Müller and a respectful farewell
One of the most emotional topics of Eberl’s interview was the decision not to renew Thomas Müller’s contract, despite the veteran’s willingness to stay on a smaller salary.
“It wasn’t about money at all; it was about the squad. Everyone would have liked to keep him as a person — he’s one of the greatest players ever to wear this jersey. It wouldn’t have done him justice to give him any role. We openly communicated that to him in March.” — Max Eberl
The decision was handled with mutual respect, and Müller was given the opportunity to close his Bayern chapter by participating in the Club World Cup triumph.
Balancing squad size and youth development
Addressing criticism that Bayern’s squad is too small, Eberl defended the current size as strategic — emphasizing quality, health, and opportunity for young players.
“What good is a big squad if part of it is constantly in rehab? We also wanted to make space for young players.” — Max Eberl
He highlighted Bayern’s focus on Lennart Karl, Wisdom Mike, and Cassiano Kiala as the next generation of talent. While Mathys Tel and Paul Wanner departed, Eberl insisted those moves were made to balance opportunity and financial sustainability.
Uli Hoeneß, internal debate, and Bayern’s DNA
As expected, Eberl also addressed Uli Hoeneß’s frequent public remarks and his “constructive criticism” of Bayern’s sporting leadership. His tone remained respectful and pragmatic.
“Uli has been with me for 35 years. I often called him during my time at Gladbach for advice. Everything he said on ‘Doppelpass’ he also told me personally. I take his advice, but I have my own ideas.” — Max Eberl
Eberl admitted he can be “sensitive” at times, but framed it as a strength rather than a flaw — a sign of his personal investment in the club’s direction.
“Of course I react sensitively when I’m convinced of something. I’m passionate about it. If I only did what others told me, I wouldn’t be doing what I believe is best for the club.” — Max Eberl
Bayern’s evolving place in world football
Eberl concluded with a broader reflection on Bayern’s position in the global market — acknowledging the financial power of the Premier League and the changing nature of modern transfers.
“The Premier League has outpaced all other leagues. Chasing them is like Don Quixote fighting windmills. The British have the advantage of multi-club ownership, which gives them access everywhere.” — Max Eberl
Despite the economic challenges, Eberl believes Bayern’s combination of sporting ambition, financial discipline, and identity keeps it unique — and sustainable for the future.
Bayern Fever analysis
Eberl’s words reflect a shift in tone at Säbener Straße — from reaction to planning, from impulse to structure. His partnership with Vincent Kompany signals not just a tactical renewal, but a philosophical one: building a Bayern that can compete globally while remaining true to its disciplined, self-driven roots.
In an age of inflated markets and emotional headlines, Eberl’s calm realism may be Bayern’s most valuable asset.
Keywords: Max Eberl, FC Bayern Munich, 11Freunde, Vincent Kompany, Uli Hoeneß, Christoph Freund, Jamal Musiala, Alphonso Davies, Joshua Kimmich, Leroy Sané, Luis Díaz, Thomas Müller, Florian Wirtz, Nick Woltemade, Bundesliga, Bayern Fever