Bayern issue Dutch with ultimatum over Robben

Bayern Munich chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge on Thursday issued an ultimatum to the Dutch Football Association (KNVB) demanding at least one million euros for the loss of winger Arjen Robben.

While Holland lost the World Cup final 1-0 to Spain with Robben in their side in July, Bayern are bitter the winger aggravated a thigh injury and is not expected to play football again until after January’s winter break.

The defending Bundesliga champions have demanded ‘a seven-figure sum’ according to Rummenigge for the loss of their star forward and the chairman says the German giants want the money soon.

Rummenigge has said the next step would be to take the matter to FIFA, world football’s governing body, if the matter can not be resolved by the two parties.

“We expect an answer from the Dutchmen in the not too distant future,” Rummenigge told Munich newspaper TZ on Thursday.

“If we don’t find a satisfactory solution with the Dutch, we will complain.

“I have already said this quite clearly.”

Bayern met with KNVB representatives more than two weeks ago and the time delay has irritated Rummenigge.

“Our conversation with those gentlemen is already two weeks old, but we still have not heard from them – despite the fact we agreed we would.”

Robben returned from the World Cup with a two-inch tear in his left thigh and Bayern insist he should not have been allowed to play, so are chasing the KNVB and their doctors for compensation.

Meanwhile, Rummenigge has also said he is keen to extend the contract of coach Louis van Gaal, who is out of contract at the end of the season.

“I can well imagine that he will remain here a lot longer. If something works, you have to try to keep it going,” said Rummenigge.

Van Gaal is reported to be close to signing a year’s extension and is working through the terms with the club.