MUNICH — Bayern Munich has confirmed that former player and Germany defender Jérôme Boateng will not be joining the club to pursue his coaching career, following fan protests regarding his conviction last year for bodily harm against his ex-partner.
Last month, Bayern’s coach Vincent Kompany, who played alongside Boateng, expressed his support for Boateng’s involvement in training sessions as he sought to transition into coaching.
However, some Bayern fans raised concerns by displaying banners opposing Boateng’s return. A Munich court had previously convicted him of causing bodily harm, resulting in a suspended fine and a warning. Boateng has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
In a statement shared late Saturday, Bayern stated, “During a constructive conversation between FC Bayern and Jérôme Boateng this week, it was decided that he would not visit FC Bayern to observe training.”
Boateng expressed his strong connection to FC Bayern and indicated he did not wish to cause the club any further controversy amid the ongoing discussion surrounding him.
In response to the unfolding situation, Boateng shared via Instagram that he would explore other opportunities “following the recent discussions about me,” emphasizing his desire for the club to concentrate on their on-field performance.
Boateng, who celebrated two Champions League victories with Bayern and was part of the German team that won the World Cup in 2014, announced his retirement from playing last month. His contract with Austrian side LASK Linz was mutually terminated in August, despite having another season remaining.