The Girls Next Door

Hui Xian · Sun Jul 23, 2006 2:59 pm MAGATH ACCENTUATES THE POSITIVE

MAGATH ACCENTUATES THE POSITIVE
Bayern Munich coach Felix Magath believes the departure of Michael Ballack on a free transfer to Chelsea could be a blessing in disguise for his side.

The 53-year-old is still exploring alternatives to the German captain, but in an interview with the Welt am Sonntag newspaper, he explained how life after Ballack could ring in a new, more successful era for the Bavarian club.

"If a player like him leaves, then of course it is a loss, but new options have opened up," he said.

"Until now, our game has been dictated heavily by him.

"Now, there is the chance for others to step into the limelight and I expect us to play more flexibly, which at the same time means we will be more attractive to watch."

Ballack won three Bundesliga titles in his four years with Bayern after joining from Bayer Leverkusen in 2002.

He has been regarded as Germany's best player for at least the last four years, but the club must now look to its other names for inspiration and Magath believes he has found the man to provide that spark.

Striker Lukas Podolski was signed from relegated Cologne in the summer and Magath expects the 21-year-old to be a hit.

"We really want him to improve his potential and become a player with a huge influence on the future of FC Bayern," added Magath.

SH00TiNxSKY3 · Sun Aug 13, 2006 12:50 pm

Nah! How come this people are like this?!