Pep Guardiola ended his sabbatical on Monday when he was formally presented as Bayern Munich coach, saying in almost perfect German he chose the treble winners for their players and proud club history.
Guardiola told a packed news conference that he needed a new challenge after four successful years as Barcelona coach during which he won 14 titles, including two Champions Leagues, between 2008 and 2012.
“It feels like a gift, the joy to be here, that Bayern Munich considered me to be here. I chose Munich because of their players at their history. They are among the greatest clubs in the world,” Guardiola said.
“I am ready. It is a new challenge for me to be here. My time in Barcelona was wonderful but I needed a new challenge. Bayern Munich gave me the opportunity. That’s why I am ready to do my best ... I want to continue on the high level as my predecessor Jupp Heynckes.”
Munich chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge said: “It is luck, pride and a success to get the most successful coach in the world. Both sides wanted it: Bayern wanted Pep, Pep wanted Bayern. It is a wonderful story for Bayern Munich and German football.”
