Bayern Munich exec says Philipp Lahm or Thomas Muller should be next president

"If a footballer has earned 20 million a year and should now work six days a week for a fraction of that, it becomes difficult. This statement encapsulates Hainer's primary concern regarding attracting elite former players to executive positions at Bayern Munich, highlighting the substantial financial and lifestyle adjustments required when transitioning from professional football to corporate leadership roles."

Bayern Munich president Herbert Hainer discussed potential successors to his position, expressing preference for legendary former players like Thomas Müller and Phillip Lahm. However, Hainer acknowledges the difficulty in attracting such candidates, noting that former high-earning footballers earning 20 million annually would face substantial salary cuts to work six days weekly in an executive role. Hainer himself transitioned from the business world, having served as Adidas president and CEO for over 15 years before joining Bayern. His predecessor Uli Hoeneß followed a similar path, transitioning from player to executive. Lahm has already entered business roles post-retirement, including organizing Germany's Euro 2024 hosting efforts. Müller remains an intriguing candidate given his passion for Bayern, though questions remain about his suitability for executive responsibilities.

Read at Bavarian Football Works