‘Piss off!’ – Bayern Munich fans protest against Jerome Boateng return but Vincent Kompany dismisses controversial invitation to former defender as ‘no big deal’

Bayern supporters have voiced fierce opposition to the club’s decision to allow Boateng to intern with the team as part of his coaching education. During Bayern’s 2-1 win over Borussia Dortmund at the weekend, banners filled the Allianz Arena’s south stand, reading: “Whoever gives the perpetrator space shares his guilt - Boateng, p*ss off!” and “No room for scoundrels in our club, no more room for Boateng!” The move was initially presented as a short-term internship, but the backlash has cast a shadow over Kompany’s otherwise impressive start to life in Munich.

Bayern boss Kompany played down the controversy, insisting that the situation has been exaggerated. “I don’t think it’s a big deal if someone watches three or four sessions and gets a bit of training,” the Bayern coach said. “We probably have 20 people a year who always come and watch. That’s why it can’t be made any bigger than that.” The Belgian manager, who shares a friendship with Boateng from their playing days, made it clear that the arrangement was informal and limited to observation only.

CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen urged a “differentiated view” of the situation, referencing Boateng’s complex legal background. “Vincent and Jerome know each other from old times. We simply agreed that Jerome would observe and watch some training sessions. And that’s it,” Dreesen said. He added, “It’s a complicated case. I think every person deserves rehabilitation.”

Sporting director Max Eberl addressed the backlash, stressing that the situation had been blown out of proportion. “This issue has suddenly become very big,” he said, clarifying that there was no formal involvement between the club and the former defender. “It’s not about employment, it’s not about a permanent position at FC Bayern. It’s simply about watching training sessions. It’s nothing more than that. We would approve of that. We say it’s not a problem.” When asked about the fan protests, Eberl declined to go into detail, saying he “didn’t want to comment on it in depth.”

The backlash against the former defender, who won European and domestic trebles with Bayern in 2013 and 2020, stems from Boateng’s previous legal battles. In July 2024, the Munich Regional Court found him guilty of intentional simple bodily harm against his ex-girlfriend, imposing a €200,000 fine and a suspended caution. Although he does not carry a criminal record, fans remain deeply divided. Banners condemning the club’s decision reflect broader concerns over Bayern’s stance on gender-based violence, especially given their past public support for anti-violence campaigns.

Boateng confirmed that discussions with Kompany had already taken place regarding a short-term stint at Bayern. "I successfully completed the training course and the B license exam. I now want to complete a few internships by January. I’ve already spoken with [Kompany],” he revealed. “I can do an internship at Bayern, and I’m really looking forward to it. We just need to find the right time.”

Kompany, meanwhile, praised Boateng and emphasised that the invitation was a simple gesture of respect. “Of course he can become a top coach if he wants to. You just have to work very hard. And if you make an effort and surround yourself with good people, which is also important, then you can always set the best example.”

The controversy could dominate Bayern’s upcoming annual general meeting, scheduled for November 2, where it is expected that this issue will be raised in the meeting of the executives. While the management hopes the matter fades once Boateng completes his internship, growing supporter frustration poses a reputational challenge. On the pitch, Kompany’s side turn focus back to the Champions League, preparing to host Club Brugge in midweek as Bayern seek to maintain their unbeaten run in all competitions.

The Bavarians have won every game so far this season, including a solid triumph in Der Klassiker, with goals from Harry Kane and Michael Olise. In Europe, Bayern opened their campaign with victories over Chelsea (3-1) and Pafos (5-1), while Kane continues his prolific run, netting 19 goals in 11 matches. Meanwhile, Club Brugge arrive second in the Belgian league after a 1-0 win over Leuven, led by in-form striker Christos Tzolis.