Guardiola could struggle at Bayern, says Kahn

Dec 11, 2012 8:20:00 AM

The former Germany international has doubts about the successful coach, and has insisted both parties would have to work hard in order to make things work

Oliver Kahn is unsure as to whether Pep Guardiola would be suited for the job as Bayern Munich coach due to his past at Barcelona.

The successful trainer is reportedly one of the candidates to replace Jupp Heynckes at the end of the 2012-13 campaign, but Kahn believes that the 41-year-old could struggle at the Bavarians if he were to join Bayern.

"Pep Guardiola is heavily influenced by Barcelona's footballing culture. He didn't just coach their first team and reserves, but also played there for 11 years during his active career. Not many clubs have such a strong own identity as Barcelona," Kahn wrote in his column for Bild.

"It could be difficult for him to adapt to life at another club such as Bayern with his strong ties to Barcelona's philosophy. I'm not only talking about the language barrier. Just remember what happened with Jurgen Klinsmann. The changes that he had planned didn't go down well with the club.

"If Bayern were to go after Guardiola, they will both have to compromise. Why not a transitional year with both Heynckes and Guardiola? With Heynckes working in the background helping to smooth things over as Guardiola instills his philosophy.

"Courageous decisions and fresh ideas are needed in order to guide Bayern into a new era and set new standards in Europe."

Guardiola is currently enjoying a one-year sabbatical after leaving Barcelona at the end of the 2011-12 campaign.

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