Hoeness pays tribute to Heynckes

Bayern Munich president Uli Hoeness says only a coach of Pep Guardiola’s quality would be worthy of replacing Jupp Heynckes.

It was announced on Wednesday that the former Barcelona boss would be taking over from Heynckes at the Allianz Arena at the season’s end.

And Hoeness is delighted to have attracted a coach of the 41-year-old’s reputation, and has paid tribute to the outgoing 67-year-old.

“Only a coach of Pep Guardiola’s calibre would be brought into consideration to replace Jupp Heynckes,” the former West German player told the club’s official website.

“We are incredibly grateful for his work, and we would be delighted if this team gave this great coach a glorious farewell.”

Bayern Munich are nine points clear at the top of the Bundesliga, and will face Borussia Dortmund in the quarter-finals of the DFB-Pokal Cup and Arsenal in the last 16 of the Champions League.