Karl-Heinz Rummenigge admitted that Bayern Munich’s attempts to sign Pep Guardiola started as far back as July 2011.
Whilst it was a deal announced in January, off the back of talks held during the 42-year-old’s sabbatical from the game after four years had ended in 2012 at Barcelona, the Bavarians’ CEO admitted that their attempts began more than a year before.
“We have worked hard to convince Pep to come to Bayern,” Rummenigge told reporters.
“It began two years ago, when we participated in the Audi Cup [preseason competition]. We went for a coffee, enjoyed each other’s philosophy and since then we stayed in contact.
“The contact intensified last year. We have seen it as a great joy and challenge to bring the best Coach in the world here.
“It was extremely challenging but from the first day we had the feeling that Bayern and Pep would work together.
“We have just experienced a special season. I know that there is always some pressure at Bayern and maybe that is the word. I think the issue of pressure can be treated seriously but not excessively.”
