By Martin Graham
Bayern Munich and head coach Vincent Kompany have received widespread praise for their outstanding opening to the campaign. The German champions have won all 11 games in all competitions so far. Matchday 7 of the Bundesliga held special significance as Bayern hosted long-time rivals Borussia Dortmund at the Allianz Arena.
Kompany’s side prevailed in Der Klassiker, further bolstering their impressive start to the season. However, the occasion was not just about football – supporters used the high-profile match to express their displeasure over a controversial matter involving the club.
Fans protest Boateng’s training plans
Former Bayern and Germany defender Jérôme Boateng recently announced his retirement from professional football. In the weeks leading up to this announcement, he had been spotted training at Sabener Strasse. The former international now intends to follow a coaching path. Kompany previously stated that Boateng could complete a training session with the team, citing his long association with Bayern.
This position has not been well received by the fans. Boateng was found guilty of domestic violence against his ex-girlfriend and last year received a suspended fine and a warning from the Munich District Court for premeditated bodily harm. Many fans are strongly opposed to the idea of ​​the club maintaining any relationship with him.
A petition was launched to challenge Boateng’s practice plan and, according to Sky News, had gathered 2,200 signatures by Friday.
Message from the stands and Kompany’s response
During Der Klassiker, the Sudkurve displayed a prominent banner that read: “He who gives space to the perpetrator bears the blame.” Boateng had previously claimed that Kompany had already agreed to practice, although no date had been set. Bayern declined to issue a statement on the protests that took place during the match.
It is not the first time that fans have voiced their opposition. Two years earlier, when the club considered re-signing Boateng under Thomas Tuchel, supporters expressed similar concerns.
In the post-match press conference, Kompany was quizzed about the situation. He did not address the protest directly, instead explaining that Boateng would only observe three training sessions and downplaying the matter as insignificant.
For many supporters, however, the issue reflects poorly on the club’s values. They believe Bayern should have severed ties with Boateng a long time ago and are prepared to continue their protests if the club go ahead with the practice plan.
