The Bayern Munich boss in the 2018/19 season was Niko Kovac, and the Bavarians looked lost under the Croat manager. The team struggled for identity and dominance. However, the following season completely changed things with the arrival of Hans-Dieter Flick. Initially, Flick was a supposed short-term fix. Little did anyone know, he would bring a transformation not even long-reigning dynasties could achieve. Here’s how he did it:
How Hansi Flick Took Charge of a Struggling Bayern
The Niko Kovac era in Bayern Munich struggled to make an impact, and many key players showed inconsistent performances. The club even dropped to the fourth spot in December, and its supremacy in Germany alone looked fragile. Flick was appointed as head coach in November ’19, and his appointment was not met with any grand expectations.
He was supposed to be a placeholder until Bayern found a real high-profile manager. Yet, in a matter of weeks, Flick had the team play with a new confidence, energy, and enthusiasm. Players suddenly started showing belief, and the same players who were criticised for being old and finished started delivering. Flick reignited the fire within the squad that had looked lost.
Flick’s Human Touch Was What Really Changed Bayern’s Game
Apart from Flick’s tactical geniuses and disciplined coaching style, the Bayern players needed a connection with a coach. Hansi Flick quickly understood this issue and started connecting with his players. Thomas Muller, the Bayern legend considered past his prime under Kovac, suddenly looked like a world-class playmaker again. Boateng, whose future at Bayern looked in doubt, achieved his defensive peak once again.
Even youngsters like Alphonso Davies and Kimmich thrived under Flick. Flick knew how to handle stars and communicate effectively with them, but most importantly, he also knew how to make everyone feel valued, star or not. This aspect psychologically nourished Bayern players and brought out their A-game once again.
The 8-2 Statement: How Flick’s Bayern Shattered Barcelona & Announced Their Return
If there was ever any moment that symbolized Bayern’s transformation under Flick, it’s the infamous 8-2 demolition of Barca in the Champions League. It was a proper German execution of a Barcelona team which was not bad by any means, and was Champions League finalist worthy. The 8-2 demolition was a ruthless display of dominance that left the Catalans humiliated and mentally destroyed.
Flick’s Bayern tactically, mentally and physically overwhelmed, outclassed and embarrassed Barcelona. It was a victory that proved Bayern was truly back, and better than ever. Flick, who had been brought for temporary stability, had just created a team worthy of a footballing dynasty.
The Exit: How Flick Made a Lasting Impact in Just 2 Years
Hansi Flick led Bayern to unprecedented heights and won six trophies with the Bavarians in his first season. During his run with Bayern, the German club lost only seven games. However, the German wished to manage his beloved German national team and thus had to part ways with Bayern. What a run!
Hansi Flick rebuilt a disjointed Bayern squad and transformed them into one of the greatest attacking teams in football history. The German is currently busy with a similar project at Barca, and let’s hope he can replicate the same success with the team he once dismantled.