As die Roten chase dreams of an unprecedented treble, the Germany national team coach speaks of Bavarian dominance and the club’s Champions League chances
Joachim Low cannot see Bayern Munich losing their throne as kings of German football to Borussia Dortmund.
Jurgen Klopp’s men have won the past two Bundesliga championships but look set to concede their title to Jupp Heynckes’ side this season, and the Germany head coach is not surprised by the Bavarians’ resurgence.
“In the last 20 years Bayern have had a dominant position in German football,” the 53-year old told tz-online.com.
“What Dortmund have done is sensational but I don’t see a changing of the guard, not yet. That can not be expected either. You can’t fall from the throne in just two years.
“Bavaria has been well established for so many years, not only in Germany but also in Europe, they are the pride of Germany. They are the most prestigious club.”
Arjen Robben’s strike just before half-time secured die Roten’s progression to the DFB-Pokal semi-final stage at the expense of Dortmund on Wednesday night, in a match that Bayern controlled as they continue to compete on three fronts.
Low added: “Bayern were superior and therefore the deserved winner. Bayern had many good opportunities while Dortmund basically had no real chance on goal.”
Die Mannschaft’s coach also believes that Dortmund have slipped behind Bayern in terms of quality, and believes that the summer signings and rapid development of existing starlets has seen Heynckes’ men thrive.
“Bayern could cope with the loss of four or five players,” Low added. “Dortmund is perhaps equal in quality, but only if everyone is fit. If one or two players are unavailable for either team, then Bayern maintain their level better.
“Dante, [Javi] Martinez and [Mario] Mandzukic were very good purchases and [Toni] Kroos and [David] Alaba have made a big leap. At the moment, Bayern have a squad that is stronger than ever before.“
The Bavarians are 17 points clear at the top of the Bundesliga and face Arsenal with a 3-1 advantage in the second leg of their last 16 Champions League tie at the Allianz Arena, and Low thinks Germany’s top club are among the favourites in the European tournament.
“They are in any case a co-favourite. Once you’re in the semi-finals then all teams are of great quality,” he said.
“But Bayern have a chance against the big teams like Barcelona or Manchester United. All the teams in it can win the Champions League, including Bayern.”