2026 Champions League winner PSG is a role model for Bayern, says Rummenigge
Berlin, June 1
Paris Saint-Germain's 2026 UEFA Champions League triumph should serve as a model for other leading European clubs, including Bayern Munich, Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, a member of the Bavarians' supervisory board, has said.
The 70-year-old praised the French side's achievement and described the final against Arsenal, which Paris won 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw, as a well-deserved victory.
"Paris became successful when they shifted from a costly star ensemble to a true team," Rummenigge said in an interview with German media on Sunday.
Rummenigge said Paris could serve as a role model for Bayern, adding that "as we saw, it doesn't take the most expensive transfers, but the smart ones."
The former German international said, "Paris' story tells us not to follow certain Premier League or Spanish clubs."
According to Rummenigge, PSG under coach Luis Enrique played "the most attractive football in the Champions League." He said Paris repeating their previous season's victory proved that a well-balanced squad is the key to success after witnessing the Champions League final in Budapest.
PSG's achievements are reason enough for leading clubs to "take a leaf out of their book," he added.
The two-time Champions League winner also described Bayern's 5-4 defeat in the first leg of the semifinal in the French capital as the season's most thrilling match. "This was football in its purest beauty," he said, adding that Bayern would be well advised to continue with coach Vincent Kompany.
Despite Bayern's elimination by Paris following a 5-4 defeat and a 1-1 draw, "we have done many things the right way."
Rummenigge said a convincing sporting strategy is key, and the 2020 treble winner is determined to continue on that path and make another attempt to win the Champions League in the 2026-27 season.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Interesting take from a Bayern legend. But let's be honest - PSG still spent heavily, just more wisely. The "smart transfers" line is rich coming from a club that signed Harry Kane for €100m. Hypocrisy much? Still, credit where it's due - PSG's evolution is remarkable.
As someone who follows European football from India, this is refreshing. Rummenigge admitting Bayern can learn from PSG shows humility. And that 5-4 semifinal match was indeed a classic - pure entertainment! Hope more clubs focus on team chemistry rather than just buying big names. 💪
Good points from Rummenigge, but I worry about his praise for Kompany as coach. The Belgian is still inexperienced at this level. Bayern's defense was shaky in both legs against PSG. Maybe they need a more pragmatic approach? Smart transfers aside, defense wins titles too.
This is a classic case of "grass is greener" syndrome. PSG had to fail first to succeed. Bayern have been dominating the Bundesliga for years but struggled in Europe. The real lesson? Patience and a clear long-term vision. Something Indian football administrators should note too. 😅
"Most attractive football in the Champions League" - absolutely agree! PSG under Enrique play with such freedom and creativity. That's what football should be about. Reminds me of how our Indian Super League teams should aspire to be more than just defensive. Great to see European clubs actually appreciating beautiful football! 🎯
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