Bayern turn down chance for FREE World Cup winner over court case
Robin Bairner
- 6 Oct 2023 05:23 CDT
- 3 min read
Bayern Munich have decided against signing Jerome Boateng, according to reports in Germany.
Thomas Tuchel has complained about a lack of depth in the centre of his defence, which had led to Boateng training with the Bundesliga champions. He was even expected to sign for the club.
As a free agent following his release from Ligue 1 side Lyon in the summer, Bayern could have signed him and added him to their squad immediately to aid their depth.
MORE: Bayern legend rejects Premier League move in favour of Munich return
Previously, Tuchel had been forced to deploy central midfielder Leon Goretzka in the middle of his defence alongside Noussair Mazraoui, highlighting the club’s lack of options in that area if they are even modestly stretched.
Boateng, 35, could have provided an experienced alternative but FCB will not pursue a move for the 2014 World Cup winner any longer, according to a report from Bild.
According to the German source, the player’s open court case was the decisive factor in the club’s decision not to make a move.
MORE: 'Musiala's Chelsea exit like the Louvre losing the Mona Lisa'
What is Boateng accused of?
In February 2019, Boateng was accused of causing grievous bodily harm to a former girlfriend when on holiday.
Although the player denied the allegations, he was told to look for a new club in the summer of 2019 he remained at the Allianz Arena for another year before joining Lyon.
His trial ultimately took place in 2021 and he was found guilty of the offence and fined €1.9 million.
All parties appealed this verdict, causing a second hearing in October 2022, during which the guilty decision was upheld but the fine was reduced to €1.6m. Boateng, however, was given a criminal record.
A second appeal was made, which resulted in a third hearing in which the decision was annulled and the Supreme Regional Court has ordered a retrial.
With this date hanging over Boateng’s head, Bayern have elected not to press ahead with a transfer.
