Bayern Munich sporting director Hasan “Brazzo” Salihamidžić had a difficult summer on his hands, as he had to live up to the expectations of a great upheaval. In the end, the signing of Manchester City’s Leroy Sane didn’t go through, because of an unfortunate knee injury.
Still, Salihamidžić has faced criticism from fans and pundits alike. In addition, Bayern Munich CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge is reportedly not pleased with Salihamidžić’s work. So what will happen to Salihamidžić after Uli Hoeness goes to retirement?
It’s no secret that Hoeness has a good relationship with Brazzo and was one of the biggest advocates. There might be some bad blood between Hoeness and Rummenigge, as per latest the rumors. The story goes as far as saying that the sole hiring of Salihamidžić was to mend the strained relationship between the bosses. So when Hoeness is out of the picture, could the end be near for Brazzo with his contract is running out next summer?
In the latest article by Sport Bild, Salihamidžić’s work is evaluated now, externally and internally.
Pros:
The Bosnian revolutionized the scouting system with his chief scout Marco Neppe. Brazzo likes to be informed over every detail and be heavily involved in everything. The transfer activity of Bayern is showing a slight shift — greater interest in younger players that are suitable for FC Bayern II or U-19 team. That system might prove to be brilliant in a couple of years. Just like with Jeong Woo-yeong. The 19-year-old proved himself for Bayern II and is now with Freiburg where Bayern Munich has a buy-back clause.
Salihamidžić is very systematic. He was praised by the bosses for his detail-oriented style. He likes to be involved and doesn’t spare time to do what is necessary, which is just what the bosses like.
Cons:
Since his appointment in July, Salihamidžić has struggled with his public image and his communication with the media. The Bayern bosses have reportedly advised him to do a better job in that regard.
While he likes to immerse himself in the details, there is also a bad side of it. Agents (and even players themselves) are often complaining that they have difficulty getting an appointment.
Many are still questioning his authority and just how much Salihamidžić actually has at the club. This issue could explain some of the rumored problems while negotiating with other clubs.
Did he have a big influence on the recent transfers?
Brazzo is very proud of the current squad, but what part did he actually take in making it? The biggest transfer of this summer is definitely Philippe Coutinho. Rummenigge said that he himself went to Spain to negotiate because of his excellent contacts with FC Barcelona.
Another important signing was Ivan Perišić. Rummenigge, again, played a crucial role, while the middle man between the clubs was Giovanni Branchini. The surprise purchase of Michaël Cuisance simply doesn’t add up, either. In an already-packed midfield, the addition of another player who isn’t primarily a number “6” left some scratching their heads. But we have to give credit where it is due — the signing of French world champions Benjamin Pavard and Lucas Hernandez.
The board is still evaluating his work and the current situation (per Sport.de) is that he will get a new contract. The majority of the board is happy with him, but still, that situation might change after the departure.
Salihamidžić also made it clear that he won’t be accepting another sporting director to be over him. For example Max Eberl from Borussia Mönchengladbach, who has been linked with a move to Munich.
What is your opinion — should Salihamidžić have his contract extended or not?
Poll
Should Bayern offer a new contract to Salihamidžić?
This poll is closed
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23%
Yes! He has done his job well.
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51%
No! He wasn’t up to the task.
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25%
I’m indifferent.