Rummenigge: Bayern would not have stood a chance if Guardiola's decision was based on money

18/01/2013 12:30:00 AM

The Bavarians are overjoyed to have secured the services of the successful coach, and are hopeful that Jupp Heynckes will remain at the club

Bayern Munich chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has insisted that the Bundesliga leaders would not have been able to sign Pep Guardiola as their new coach if the former Barcelona trainer had based his decision on money.

"[Guardiola's appointment] is great news for Bayern and the whole Bundesliga. Some of the best clubs in Europe, like Milan and Man City, were interested in him, but he chose Germany. Why? The Bundesliga is on its way to becoming the best league in Europe - even ahead of the Premier League."

- Andreas Becker, Goal.com Germany

The 41-year-old will take charge of the Bavarians at the end of this season after a one-year break, much to the delight of Rummenigge.

"If this had only been about money, Bayern would never have stood a chance to secure the services of Guardiola," Rummenigge said at a press conference.

"We are very pleased and proud that Pep has decided to join Bayern. A coach like Guardiola obviously has a certain appeal. He is a very serious and social guy.

"We got the impression that he was interested in coaching Bayern right away. He will probably bring two people with him to join the backroom staff."

Rummenigge then went on to discuss the future of current coach Jupp Heynckes, who will retire at the end of the season.

"We would like it if Jupp stayed at Bayern. We do not know yet in which position, but we want him to remain involved with the club."

Bayern are currently preparing for Saturday's Bundesliga restart against Greuther Furth.