One legend replaces another as Bayern make big change at the top

Karl Heinz Rummenigge, Oliver Kahn, Bayern Munich

Bayern Munich have appointed Oliver Kahn as their new chief executive from July 1 after it was announced that another club legend in Karl-Heinz Rummenigge will retire from his position at the end of this month.

The 65-year-old has been part of Bayern’s management team since 1991. He was initially installed as vice-president before being appointed to his current role in 2002. During his time as CEO, the Bavarian club have won the Champions League twice, 14 Bundesliga titles and the DFB-Pokal on 10 occasions.

He leaves behind an incredible legacy, but he insists he does so safe in the knowledge their future is in safe hands.

“It is a farewell with satisfaction and pride. I am allowed to hand over a sporting, economically and structurally completely intact club. That was important to me,” Rummenigge told Bayern’s website.

Bayern will be under the management of Julian Nagelsmann next season. He replaces Hansi Flick, who has agreed to take charge of the German national side.

Rummenigge, whose contract was originally due to run until the end of 2021, insists the time is right to move on.

“It is the most strategically sensible and logical time.

“We are writing the end of the financial year, at the same time a new phase with a new coaching team begins.

“I said two years ago that we were planning a prudent transition and that is now finally being completed.”

Rummenigge played as a forward for Bayern from 1974 to 1984, scoring 217 goals in 422 matches. He also netted 45 times in 95 outings for West Germany during his career.


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Kahn praises Rummenigge

Successor Kahn has been involved in Bayern’s management board for the past 18 months.

The 51-year-old made 632 appearances for the club between 1994 and 2008.

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“Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has done a great job for FC Bayern as CEO for more than 20 years,” said Kahn.

“During this time, the club has won everything there was to win, its merits for FC Bayern cannot be overestimated.

“Now the time has come for me to take over the responsibility at the top of FC Bayern Munchen.

“Over the past 18 months, I have got to know all facets of the club and know very well how FC Bayern works and what challenges await us.

“I am aware of the task and the associated responsibility and am very much looking forward to it.”

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