The Catalan was criticised for clashing with AC Milan midfielder Nigel de Jong on Tuesday but the Bayern sporting director views the incident as evidence of the coach’s commitment
Bayern Munich sporting director Matthias Sammer has admitted that Pep Guardiola is “petulant” – but argued that the coach has every right to be.
Guardiola caused controversy on Tuesday by angrily confronting AC Milan midfielder Nigel de Jong during the half-time break in Tuesday’s Audi Cup clash at the Allianz Arena, after being left bitterly upset by the Dutchman injuring Joshua Kimmich during the opening 45 minutes.
Sammer says he sees nothing wrong with the Catalan’s outburst, claiming that it merely underlined the 44-year-old’s commitment to the Bayern cause.
“Every day, every second, I can see how he is fighting,” the former Germany international told reporters on Friday.
“We are preparing for a difficult season and Bayern Munich is always under pressure. This gets mirrored [in how Guardiola behaves].
“He is certainly petulant, but he has the right to be, because he is so focused.”
Meanwhile, Sammer dismissed mounting speculation that Mario Gotze is set to leave Bayern, just two years after joining from Borussia Dortmund for €37 million.
The Germany international’s agent has admitted that the versatile attacker is less than impressed with his lack of game time under Guardiola but Sammer believes that the World Cup winner will stay put.
“Mario has a contract with us for another two years,” the former sweeper stated. “He knows the situation here.
“You must not forget that he still is a very young player. We have a big squad with great quality, so it’s normal for a player to have thoughts of leaving.
“But I expect him to move on and show the will to break through here. He wants that.”
Sammer also dismissed speculation that Bayern are unsatisifed with Robert Lewandowski and the striker’s form going into the new season.
“We’re very happy with him,” he added. “He is a pure world class player. It is normal that it takes him a little longer during the preparations to find his rhythm.
“But we’re super happy with him.”