Ottmar Hitzfeld: Hall of Fame for Bayern's title-winning former coach

"Ottmar Hitzfeld was a defining character in the recent history of FC Bayern Munich. His induction into the German Football Hall of Fame recognises his extraordinary coaching career. Hitzfeld led FC Bayern to numerous titles, including five Bundesliga championships, three DFB Cup victories and, above all, the Champions League triumph in 2001. His calm, level-headed manner and strategic vision made him one of the most successful and popular coaches to have worked at Säbener Straße."

""Being inducted into the German Football Hall of Fame fills me with pride and immense gratitude. Football was and is my life," said Hitzfeld in his acceptance speech: "I had the privilege of working with exceptional players, clubs and staff. This award also belongs to them." The 'General', as many affectionately called him, knew better than almost anyone how to form a close-knit unit from a wide variety of characters."

"Under his leadership, FC Bayern managed to establish itself as a top European club between 1998 and 2008, setting standards not only domestically but also on the international stage. Hitzfeld's instinct for people, his unshakeable belief in his team and his ability to make the right decisions even in difficult moments will never be forgotten. Many players who worked under him still speak highly of his character and leadership style today."

Ottmar Hitzfeld achieved sustained success as FC Bayern Munich coach, winning five Bundesliga titles, three DFB Cups and the 2001 Champions League. His calm, level-headed manner and strategic vision drove the club's domestic dominance and international rise between 1998 and 2008. Hitzfeld excelled at uniting diverse personalities into a cohesive, close-knit unit and made decisive choices in difficult moments. Players praised his character, leadership style and instinct for people. His Hall of Fame induction at age 76 recognizes a career built on hard work, passion and major trophies, and the club publicly congratulated him on this honour.

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