We won't be silenced! Christoph Freund defends FC Bayern's fierce criticism of the referee
Sporting director Christoph Freund has defended FC Bayern Munich against criticism of their criticism of the referee following the 1-1 draw with Bayer Leverkusen on the last matchday. Read on to find out more about the controversy and Freund's strong stance.
Christoph Freund defends FC Bayern’s criticism of the referee following the match against Leverkusen.Sporting director Christoph Freund has defended FC Bayern Munich against criticism of their criticism of the referee following the 1-1 draw with Bayer Leverkusen on the last matchday."There were a lot of emotions and a lot of controversial decisions in Leverkusen. We were frustrated and made that clear. That’s our right; other teams do the same. FC Bayern will continue to stand up for what we believe in. As FC Bayern, we will always speak our minds and won’t let anyone silence us,” said the Austrian at the press conference ahead of Saturday’s Bundesliga match against Union Berlin (3.30 pm).The match against Leverkusen was anything but smooth, with two incidents in particular causing discontent among the Bayern players: the yellow-red card shown to Luis Diaz following an alleged dive in the penalty area, and the disallowed goal by Harry Kane for handball.Honorary President Uli Hoeneß reacted angrily to the officials’ decisions afterwards, describing it as “the worst performance by a refereeing team I have ever seen in a Bundesliga match”.Ahead of Saturday’s clash, Union Berlin’s managing director Horst Heldt defended the referees and warned: “They don’t have it easy. Because, of course, every situation is scrutinised and monitored very closely. And that’s not right.” Freund responded calmly to these concerns and made it clear that FC Bayern did not share such worries.For the German record champions, the matter is “settled”, Freund explained. “Referees are an important part of football. It is also important that they are protected and able to perform to the best of their ability. Everyone knows that: clubs, players, officials and coaches. There will always be matches where there are controversial situations and where some days are better and others worse.”FC Bayern are striding towards the league title and, with eight matchdays remaining, sit nine points clear of second-placed Borussia Dortmund.DateTimeMatchSaturday, 21 March3.30 pmFC Bayern v Union Berlin (Bundesliga)Saturday, 4 April3.30 pmSC Freiburg v FC Bayern (Bundesliga)Tuesday, 7 April9.00 pmReal Madrid v FC Bayern (Champions League)Saturday, 11 April6.30 pmFC St. Pauli v FC Bayern (Bundesliga)Wednesday, 15 April9.00 pmFC Bayern v Real Madrid (Champions League)Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting
Emotions Run High After Leverkusen Draw
The match against Leverkusen was anything but smooth, with two incidents in particular causing discontent among the Bayern players: the yellow-red card shown to Luis Diaz following an alleged dive in the penalty area, and the disallowed goal by Harry Kane for handball. Honorary President Uli Hoeneß reacted angrily to the officials’ decisions afterward.
Sticking to Their Beliefs
Friend emphasized Bayern's right to express their frustrations and opinions, stating, 'As FC Bayern, we will always speak our minds and won’t let anyone silence us.' Despite criticism from others, Bayern remains firm in their stance.
Respect for Referees
Freund acknowledged the importance of referees in football and stressed the need for their protection. He mentioned that while there will always be controversial moments, it is essential for all stakeholders to respect the officials and their decisions.
Looking Ahead
With the Bundesliga title in sight, FC Bayern looks ahead to upcoming fixtures, including matches against Union Berlin, SC Freiburg, and pivotal Champions League encounters with Real Madrid. The team remains focused and determined to maintain their lead in the league.
