Bayern Munich boss Pep Guardiola has been criticised by Felix Magath before the start of the 2013-14 Bundesliga season.
In particular, Magath, who coached Bayern between 2004 and 2007, has questioned Guardiola’s decision to sign Thiago Alcantara from former club Barcelona, whilst also warning him about introducing too many tactical changes this season.
“As I see it, the fact that a Spanish Coach has signed a Spanish player is a problem,” Magath was quoted as saying by AS.
“If he [Thiago] plays then his teammates will always believe that is why. If not then the fans will remember the [€21m] transfer fee paid for him. It is a situation Guardiola could have avoided.
“Also, if he starts changing players’ positions then they won’t like it and will lose faith in him. Bayern played better than ever last season and I don’t think they can surpass that.
“You can’t do any better than a team that won all those titles.”
Guardiola’s staunchest ally over the past few weeks has been captain Philipp Lahm, who commented that “we know it will take time”.
However, winger Arjen Robben has hinted that some players are still to be convinced that changing things will improve on what was a magnificent 2012-13 campaign.
“You don’t need to make football more complicated than it really is,” said the Dutchman.
