HOUSTON – Defender Jerome Boateng's role in Bayern
Munich's American tour ended early at the weekend after the
Bundesliga champions gave him permission to return to Germany "for
private reasons."
The 30-year-old former Germany international was considered a
transfer candidate but has impressed during close season so far. He
returned home late after Saturday's 3-1 win over Real Madrid in
Houston.
"From a sporting view I am very happy with him, not only with the
performance he delivered today," said Bayern coach Niko Kovac. "That
was like as I know him, as we all know him. A big compliment. He had
already shown that in training."
Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummnigge also commented positively on the
world champion from 2014. President Uli Hoeness had previously
suggested a transfer towards the end of last season.
"He has done well, he has prepared perfectly for this trip," said
Rummenigge. "He came with ideal weight and a certain fitness
already."
Boateng's future remains uncertain despite his contract having two
years to run in Munich.
"The last word definitely hasn't been said," said Rummenigge.
But Bayern are well stocked in Boateng's position with club record
signing Lucas Hernandez, Niklas Suele, Benjamin Pavard and even
midfielder Javi Martinez capable of playing there.
"We will see what happens in the transfer market," said Rummenigge.
"Then we will finally speak with him about how we go on."
Bayern lost the first game of their tour to Arsenal but goals from
Corentin Tolisso (15th minute), Robert Lewandowski (67) and Serge
Gnabry (69) earned victory over Real in front of 60,413 fans.
Sven Ulreich was sent off for a late foul on Vinicius and Rodrygo
grabbed a consolation for Zinedine Zidane's side from the resulting
free kick.
"I think that Bayern even now have a top first eleven already," said
Real's former Munich midfielder Toni Kroos. "I always see Bayern
right up there."
Bayern conclude their pre-season tour against AC Milan in Kansas on
Tuesday. They open the new Bundesliga campaign at home to Hertha
Berlin on August 16.