In his banquet speech at a venue with a history, CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen raved about Bayern’s performance at Arsenal – and about one duo in particular
With a remarkable performance at Premier League leaders FC Arsenal, the FC Bayern professionals have spared themselves and their superiors further unpleasant discussions for the time being – and also made Jan-Christian Dreesen’s job easier. The Munich CEO was able to deliver his obligatory banquet speech after the 2-2 draw in the Champions League quarter-final first leg on Tuesday evening with a smile.
“What can I say? The dead live longer – I think that’s tonight’s motto,” said Dreesen in the posh team hotel The Landmark. “It’s been a tough month, and what a day it was today! The team showed its true colors and delivered a fantastic, intense game. You should be really proud of yourselves, that was a more than deserved 2:2. “
As demanded by sporting director Max Eberl, the team “represented FC Bayern with honor”, “under special circumstances” – without their own fans at the Emirates – “held their own brilliantly” and “achieved this fantastic result”, Dreesen continued. “We all agree that today was one thing above all: a team effort. Everyone fought for each other, it was really nice to watch. That was great fun. We want to see much, much more of that from you, dear team. Then everyone in Europe will have to watch out for us. “
Dreesen nevertheless explicitly singled out two players: Serge Gnabry, whom he congratulated on a “fantastic goal” after a long injury break, but also wished him a “heartfelt” speedy recovery following his subsequent thigh injury. And Harry Kane, who converted his penalty to make it 2:1 “incredibly cool”. “Thanks for that, Harry!”
Even though “another tough package” awaits in the second leg next Wednesday in Munich, Dreesen is already looking ahead to the final. “This place is special, we chose it for a reason,” he said of the hotel where Bayern celebrated the Champions League title in 2013. “It should remind us of what we achieved here more than ten years ago and motivate you to revive that spirit.” This year’s final will be held at Wembley on June 1, just like in 2013
