Bayern Munich CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has claimed he has no problem with Real Madrid spending €100 million on Gareth Bale.
The Bavarian side’s board member has insisted that spending nine figures on one player isn’t a threat to Financial Fair Play.
“I think [UEFA President Michel] Platini is helping a lot. He's hard at work, but still 60 per cent of clubs in Europe are in the red,” he told Marca.
“We have to change owner mentalities. Bayern doesn't spend what it doesn't have. If we signed Javi Martínez it was because we had €40 million – we didn't request a loan and we don't leave a trail of unpaid debts. UEFA shouldn't go against clubs, but rather try to stop them over-spending.
“It's up to everyone to do what they want, so long as it's within their means. Big clubs like us have the duty and are under pressure to have the best players.
“That's why I believe in Financial Fair Play, because everyone should only spend what they have. If Real bought Bale for such a high price it's because they did well before that and sold players for over €100 million – that's how they were able to pay for it.
“I don't think Real is the problem – other clubs aren't compliant, not Real Madrid, which has cash. Granted, these types of signings don't go down well in Brussels, because they feel the Spanish economy isn't in a state for that sort of money to be changing hands in football; it gives off a bad image socially.
“But I don't think Madrid is a problem financial health-wise.”
