Bayern Munich have parted company with Florian Zahn, their team leader for scouting & squad planning in youth football. The German record champions announced the decision on Wednesday.
In an official statement, Bayern described the departure as "mutual", saying they had reached an agreement after "good discussions". Zahn joined the Bayern campus from Chelsea in summer 2019 and worked for the Munich club for more than seven years.
Sporting director Christoph Freund praised Zahn's work: "Florian and his team have discovered many talented players in recent years who have made it into professional football or are close to doing so. We thank him for his work and wish him all the best for the future."
Zahn also looked back fondly on his time at Säbener Straße. He said he felt "pride and great gratitude" for the chance to work for the "club close to my heart". "After seven years at the club, it feels right to pursue my desire for personal and professional development. I look forward to what comes next and will remain deeply connected to Bayern Munich. Many thanks to my team and all the managers and colleagues who supported me along the way."
Who else has had to leave Bayern Munich?
Another Bayern official is set to leave in quick succession. At the beginning of November, the record champions announced they would also part ways with head of scouting Nils Schmadtke. Bayern described his departure as mutual, too.
Schmadtke's contract runs until 31 January 2027, when he will leave the club. He had originally been contracted to the Munich club until summer 2027.
His departure came as no surprise. He had faced internal criticism over his leadership style. The son of former Bundesliga goalkeeper and manager Jörg Schmadtke was considered a close confidant of board member for sport Max Eberl in Munich. The two had previously worked together at Borussia Mönchengladbach. A kicker report says Bayern's bosses plan to settle Schmadtke's succession internally.