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Munich, 16 January 2013: FC Bayern today announces that head coach Jupp Heynckes has decided to retire when his current contract expires on 30 June 2013. In his place, the club has appointed Pep Guardiola as head coach for three years from 1 July 2013.
Full official statement:
FC Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge and head coach Jupp Heynckes met today for talks as previously arranged.
Heynckes, who had already indicated to the FC Bayern Munich AG chairman prior to Christmas that he was not inclined to extend his contract with the club beyond the expiry date of 30 June 2013, but would rather end his coaching career, has today officially confirmed this decision.
“We have to show understanding for this decision, as a club, but also as friends of Jupp Heynckes," commented Rummenigge, “we must accept and respect his decision. However, in a highly personal conversation with Jupp Heynckes, we have also assured each other we will do everything – and we mean everything – to ensure both FC Bayern and Jupp Heynckes enjoy a successful second half of the 2012/13 season and bring the German championship to Munich."
As Heynckes’ successor, FC Bayern Munich has succeeded in appointing one of the most high profile and successful coaches in world football, former FC Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola. The 41-year-old and FC Bayern have agreed on a partnership starting with the new 2013/14 season. Guardiola has already signed a three-year contract until 30 June 2016.
“We are delighted we’ve succeeded in appointing leading coach Pep Guardiola, who has been pursued and contacted by many big-name clubs, for FC Bayern," commented chairman Rummenigge. “Pep Guardiola is one of the most successful coaches in the world, and we’re certain he will add great flair to both FC Bayern and German football. We're looking forward to the partnership from July 2013."
FC Bayern Munich supervisory board chairman Uli Hoeneß commented: “We are extremely grateful to Jupp Heynckes for all his work, Following his decision, we would be delighted if the team was to give this coaching great the glorious farewell he deserves. As a worthy successor to Jupp Heynckes, only a coach of Pep Guardiola's calibre comes into question."
