Barca outlet Sport fume at Bayern Munich chief Oliver Kahn for ‘SCOFFING’ at Champions League draw
In what is being described as the ‘Group of Death’, Bayern Munich were drawn alongside Barcelona, Inter Milan and Viktoria Plzen in the Champions League group stages on Thursday.
Yet Bayern chief Oliver Kahn could not hide his delight when the German side were drawn alongside Barca. As the Spanish club joined them in Group C, the camera panned to the former goalkeeper – who was pictured grinning at the outcome.
The images have sparked a furious reaction in Spain, with Catalonian newspaper Sport writing: ‘Kahn scoffs at Barça. It was an unusual reaction from a manager taking part in the draw where respect is actually the norm.’
Bayern Munich CEO Oliver Kahn has been slammed for his reaction to Champions League draw
The former goalkeeper was seen smirking as the Bavarians were drawn alongside Barcelona
Catalonian outlet Sport have claimed that Kahn lacks ‘respect’ following the draw reaction
Yet Kahn shut down the accusations that he lacks respect, defending himself by saying: ‘This interpretation is really completely out of thin air.’
The result sets up an eye-catching reunion between Bayern and their ex-striker Robert Lewandowski. The 34-year-old joined Barca this summer after helping the German side win eight Bundesliga titles and the Champions League in eight seasons.
And Bayern forward Thomas Muller sent a message to his former team-mate ahead of the clash between the two sides. Taking to Instagram, Muller said: ‘Mr Lewangoalski, see you soon in Munich. I’m looking forward to it.’
The Poland international is yet to react to the draw, but he previously revealed that he wanted to avoid his old employers in the group stages of the competition.
Speaking to BILD SPORT, Lewandowski said: ‘No, it doesn’t have to be in the preliminary round yet. Bayern should play against other teams first…’
The draw sets up a fascinating reunion between Bayern and ex-striker Robert Lewandowski
Bayern’s Thomas Muller (right) said he was ‘looking forward’ to playing against ex-team-mate
The two sides were also in the same Champions League group last season, with Bayern defeating their Spanish counterparts 3-0 in both meetings.
And Bayern sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic believes it was fate that the two sides were drawn together once more.
Salihamidzic said: ‘Only football writes such stories. We’re looking forward to it. We had them last season too. Barcelona have strengthened well, they have a top team, of course also with Lewy. It will be two very exciting games.’
He added: ‘Of course we’re favourites, but it’s not easy. The group is tough, but we’re all looking forward to it. These are top stadiums and attractive opponents.’
