End of an era at Bayern as Uli Hoeneß steps down
Associated PressBERLIN — Bayern Munich president Uli Hoeneß is taking a back seat after more than 40 years at the forefront of the club. Hoeneß said tears may be shed, but “that’s not a problem.” Hoeneß is leaving with Bayern in better financial health than ever before. “I don’t think you can imagine what German soccer will be like without him,” former Bayern coach Ottmar Hitzfeld said of Hoeneß. Hoeneß emerged unscathed and with his popularity possibly boosted after the conviction – he was greeted with standing ovations upon his return – but he faced unprecedented criticism, boos and whistles from club members at Bayern’s AGM last year. “I’ll maintain a close relationship with Bayern,” Hoeneß said, “and even invite players for dinner so I can give my opinion behind closed doors if it’s wanted.” ___ More AP soccer: https://apnews.com/Soccer and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports ___ Ciarán Fahey on Twitter: https://twitter.com/cfaheyAP