Bayern Munich legend opens up on Barcelona’s failed switch try – ‘I had a proposal, however…’

Bayern Munich legend Philipp Lahm has revealed that Barcelona made a powerful push to signal him in 2008, throughout the early days of Pep Guardiola’s reign on the membership. 

In an interview with Abendzeitung (h/t SPORT), Lahm confirmed that Barça have been eager on bringing him to Camp Nou as a part of their squad rebuild after Frank Rijkaard’s departure.

On the time, Joan Laporta and Txiki Begiristain have been spearheading Barcelona’s transformation, figuring out Lahm as an ideal match for Guardiola’s tactical plans. 

Nevertheless, the German full-back finally selected loyalty over a recent problem, occurring to turn into one in every of Bayern’s greatest-ever gamers and captaining them to a historic treble in 2013.

“In 2008 I had a proposal from FC Barcelona. They insisted on the proposal. That was a recognition, however for me, there was nothing higher than reaching most success with the membership the place I grew up and the place I used to be later captain.” Lahm acknowledged.

Advise for Barcelona goal, Joshua Kimmich

Philipp Lahm was approached by Barcelona in 2008. (Photograph by Alexander Hassenstein/Bongarts/Getty Photos)

Lahm’s revelation comes at a time when Joshua Kimmich, one other Bayern star, is closely linked with Barcelona and Actual Madrid. 

Kimmich’s contract expires in the summertime, and he has but to resume his cope with the Bavarian giants. Lahm sees the 30-year-old as a pure successor to Manuel Neuer as Bayern captain, stating:

“He’s been on the membership for fairly a while, he performs repeatedly and due to this fact he’s an vital participant. In actuality, the logical factor to do is to nominate him captain. After all, first he should renew his contract after which the coach will resolve,” he added.

Barcelona’s curiosity in Kimmich is well-documented, however whether or not historical past will repeat itself stays to be seen.

In contrast to Lahm, Kimmich could also be extra open to a brand new problem, particularly with Barça actively looking for a world-class midfielder to strengthen their squad.