Bayern Munich legend Uli Hoeness has issued a stark warning about reckless spending, using Barcelona’s €1.2 billion debt as an example while defending sporting director Max Eberl, who has faced criticism and resignation rumours after a difficult transfer window.
Bayern Munich have endured a turbulent summer off the pitch, with criticism mounting over their transfer dealings and sporting director Max Eberl at the centre of debate. Club icon and honorary president Uli Hoeness has now stepped in, warning against financial recklessness and referencing Barcelona’s debt crisis as a cautionary tale.
Hoeness: “Barcelona sends its regards”
Speaking to Sport1, Hoeness defended the club’s cautious approach despite frustrations among fans and critics that Bayern failed to land key transfer targets such as Florian Wirtz and Nick Woltemade, who instead joined Liverpool and Newcastle.
“He [Eberl] would have liked to buy a player, but we know our cash position. In the end, that’s just as important as sporting success,” Hoeness said. “Barcelona sends its regards. If you buy, buy, buy… suddenly you have €1.2 billion in debt. See you later.”
The Bayern chief also admitted that Eberl, who has faced reports of resignation, can be “quite sensitive” when dealing with internal disagreements but insisted the former Gladbach man remains committed to the role.
Transfer frustrations and internal tensions
Eberl has faced relentless pressure over Bayern’s activity in the market. Despite eventually landing players like Luis Diaz, Nicolas Jackson, and Jonathan Tah, Bayern missed out on their top targets and were criticised for appearing hesitant compared to their rivals.
Hoeness, however, stressed that Bayern’s transfer business is always collective:
There is no Eberl transfer, no Hoeness transfer, no Rummenigge transfer – only an FC Bayern transfer. If it doesn’t work out, it’s not the fault of one individual, but of all of us.
Caution over ambition
The message from Hoeness is clear: Bayern’s financial health comes before reckless spending sprees. While clubs like Barcelona have struggled under the weight of enormous debt, the Bavarians remain committed to balancing sporting ambition with financial discipline – even if it means losing out on dream signings.
What’s next for Bayern?
With the transfer window shut, Bayern and Eberl must now shift focus to the season ahead. New signings Diaz, Jackson, and Tah will be expected to strengthen Vincent Kompany’s squad as the club continues its push for domestic dominance and Champions League success.
