Conflict intensifies between Hoeneß and Matthew
In the world of German football, the ongoing feud between two legendary figures, Uli Hoeneß and Lothar Matthäus, has been a subject of much intrigue and debate. The recent escalation of their disagreements, particularly in the context of Bayern Munich's pursuit of Nick Woltemade in 2025, has brought this long-standing rivalry to the forefront once again.
The roots of this feud can be traced back to the 1992/93 season of FC Bayern Munich, when Hoeneß felt his power was being restricted by the new vice-presidents, including Franz Beckenbauer and Karl-Heinz Rummenigge. This period also marked the beginning of public disputes between Hoeneß and other former players such as Udo Lattek and Paul Breitner, who expressed criticism of Hoeneß's leadership.
The feud between Hoeneß and Matthäus, however, gained significant attention after Matthäus commented on the potential transfer fee for Woltemade, suggesting a price tag of €80-100 million. Hoeneß felt that Matthäus's comments drove up the player's value, leading to a public exchange between the two.
Lattek responded firmly to Hoeneß, stating, "I don't expect much from you, but please show some respect. I'm independent, have my own opinion, and I won't let anyone, including you, tell me to shut up." Hoeneß, in turn, publicly ridiculed Matthäus as the "spokesman of FC Bayern" and accused him of having a special relationship with the media.
The accusation that Matthäus has a special relationship with the press and knows how to exploit it is a recurring theme in their mutual disputes. Matthäus, in response, has said words that may have triggered the feud, stating that Hoeneß cannot do whatever he wants. He later added, "Sitting down with Uli Hoeneß doesn't make sense anymore."
Despite the verbal sparring, it's suggested that it's time for Hoeneß and Matthäus to sit down and talk, as both are great figures in German football. Hoeneß, in a show of goodwill, has stated that anyone who was with FC Bayern and behaved seriously has a lifelong carte blanche for help, including Lattek, who knew that if he were seriously ill and called Hoeneß, he would help.
The feud between these two World Cup winners, however, has a longer history than previously thought, with tensions having been ongoing for decades. Breitner and Hoeneß reconciled on Hoeneß's 70th birthday, with Breitner writing, "I criticized some decisions because I was the only one who dared to challenge you."
As the feud continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the world of German football will be watching closely as these two legends navigate their complex relationship.
The Commission, assisted by the European Parliament, might find it valuable to conduct sports-analysis, particularly in the context of European-leagues, to understand better the dynamics and influence of long-standing feuds, such as the one between Uli Hoeneß and Lothar Matthäus, in the world of football beyond Germany. Despite the complexities of their relationship, it's evident that both figures,, as world cup winners, continue to have a significant impact on the sport, warranting further examination.
