Biography Uncovers Haaland Lies and Lewandowski’s Discontent at FC Bayern
Munich, July 11, 2026 – The true reasons behind Robert Lewandowski’s contentious departure from FC Bayern in the summer of 2022, which saw him move to Barcelona, have reportedly been unveiled in a new biography. According to Sebastian Staszewski’s book, ‘Lewandowski. Prawdziwy’ (Lewandowski. Unadulterated), the star striker’s exit was primarily influenced by FC Bayern’s pursuit of Erling Haaland and alleged deception by then-sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic.
It was widely reported at the time that Bayern had an interest in the Norwegian striker, and this did not sit well with Lewandowski. However, the biography introduces a new element: Salihamidzic allegedly lied about the club’s intentions.
The Haaland Saga: A Breach of Trust
Biographer Sebastian Staszewski details the unfolding events, stating, “Hasan Salihamidzic called Haaland’s agent. Pini Zahavi (Lewandowski’s agent), who had his spies, and Lewandowski quickly found out about this. Although it hurt Robert, it didn’t seem to bother him; he remained himself, continuing to score goals.”
However, the book suggests that in reality, playing in the Allianz Arena became less and less enjoyable for Lewandowski. With his contract set to expire in 2023, the situation escalated. “When Zahavi asked Salihamidzic during a conversation in the lounge of a small private jet airport if it was true that Bayern wanted to buy Haaland, he denied it without batting an eyelid.”
Both Lewandowski and his agent were reportedly aware of the truth, having met Haaland’s father, Alf-Inge, in a nightclub where they learned that discussions were already underway. Lewandowski himself is quoted in the book, expressing his disappointment: “That was Bayern’s biggest mistake. Their bosses lied to me. After so many years, I deserved honesty and respect. If they had just openly told me their plans, I probably would have even advised them. But they didn’t. And I was far too old to be treated that way.”
Salihamidzic confirmed in 2023, during the Champions League clashes with Manchester City, that there had been talks with Haaland’s representatives. “We didn’t have the necessary funds,” he stated on Prime Video, adding, “I do believe he considered it.” Haaland ultimately moved to Manchester City in the same summer as Lewandowski’s departure, with a reported transfer fee of only 60 million Euros due to a release clause, but substantial signing-on fees, with some media outlets reporting up to 70 million Euros.
Other Developments at FC Bayern: Transfers, Injuries, and Club Changes
In other news from FC Bayern, the club is set to receive a potential financial boost thanks to a sell-on clause negotiated by Hasan Salihamidzic for Tanguy Nianzou. The defender, who moved to Sevilla in 2022 for 16 million Euros, is reportedly on the verge of another transfer, with Lille showing interest. Sky reported in 2022 that Bayern secured a 22.5 percent sell-on clause. While Nianzou’s market value has decreased, Spanish media suggest Sevilla might even let him go for free. However, if he leaves before his contract expires, an additional four million Euros in bonus payments could be triggered, regardless of the transfer fee.
Meanwhile, Harry Kane shared details of a golf game with Donald Trump ahead of England’s World Cup quarter-final against Norway. Kane revealed he was invited to play by the former US President during a visit to Palm Beach, describing it as a “pretty surreal experience.” Trump also confirmed the encounter, praising Kane’s golfing skills.
FC Bayern is also set to overhaul its ticketing system at the Allianz Arena, moving to an exclusively digital format via the FCB or Allianz Arena app from the 2026/27 season. This change aims to enhance security and transparency, though it has raised concerns among fan clubs regarding ticket distribution and organizational processes. Jan-Christian Dreesen, CEO of FC Bayern, assured that the club would support members and fan clubs through the transition, with specific solutions developed for larger fan club contingents to facilitate digital ticket forwarding.
Former Bayern player Thiago Alcántara reflected on his time in Munich during a podcast with Rio Ferdinand. He surprisingly highlighted Douglas Costa’s initial impact, stating that the entire team believed Costa would win the Ballon d’Or in his first six months at the club. Costa, who joined from Shakhtar Donetsk in 2015/16 under Pep Guardiola, was indeed a standout performer in his debut season, registering 14 assists and seven goals across all competitions. However, Thiago admitted he couldn’t explain why Costa couldn’t maintain that level of consistency, attributing it to “personal reasons.”
The Bavarian Football Association has released the Regionalliga schedule, with Bayern Amateure set to kick off their season on July 24 against SC Eltersdorf. A highly anticipated derby against 1860 Munich is scheduled for October 17, marking the first encounter between the two teams since 2021.
In injury news, Ismael Saibari of Morocco will miss the World Cup quarter-final against France due to a muscle injury sustained in the match against Canada. The severity of the injury remains unclear, but the national coach hopes he won’t be sidelined for the remainder of the tournament.
Jonathan Asp Jensen, a promising talent from the Bayern Campus, is reportedly on the verge of a move to Deportivo A Coruña for up to seven million Euros, with Bayern retaining a sell-on clause. The 20-year-old Danish offensive player is expected to help replenish Bayern’s coffers.
The FC Bayern Women’s team has signed Sophie Proost from FC Twente, with the 19-year-old winger signing a contract until 2029. Proost, who has Champions League experience, is expected to significantly bolster the team’s attacking options.
Arijon Ibrahimović has signed a new contract with FC Bayern until 2028, with the club planning to integrate him into the first team for the upcoming season after a successful loan spell at 1. FC Heidenheim. This move suggests that Bayern’s offensive planning might be complete, with eight professional players now vying for four positions.
Alexander Nübel’s transfer to Besiktas has been confirmed, with the goalkeeper leaving FC Bayern for Turkey. The deal is reportedly worth 6.5 million Euros, potentially rising to 11.5 million with bonuses, and Nübel is expected to earn five million Euros net per year.
Concerns have been raised about a significant restructuring and injury crisis at the FC Bayern Campus. Carsten Schünemann, head of the youth athletics department, is reportedly leaving amidst accusations of ineffective load management and an unusually high number of muscle injuries among young players last season. This follows other changes in leadership and scouting at the Campus, suggesting a broader overhaul.
The FC Bayern Women’s team will play a test match against Paris FC on August 9 at their new home ground, the Sportpark Unterhaching. Their pre-season training begins on July 12, followed by a marketing tour to Japan and further test matches against 1. FC Nürnberg and Paris FC. The competitive season starts on August 15 against VfL Wolfsburg in the Supercup.
The Women’s Bundesliga season will kick off on August 21, with FC Bayern facing Union Berlin at the Alte Försterei. Union Berlin had the highest attendance in the league last season, highlighting the growing popularity of women’s football.
Alphonso Davies shared an emotional statement on Instagram regarding his disappointing 2026 World Cup campaign, where he was hampered by a hamstring injury. He expressed his frustration at not being able to perform at his best for his team and country, vowing to return stronger. Thomas Tuchel, England’s national coach, revealed the “resistance” he faced to bring Harry Kane to Bayern Munich, praising Kane’s crucial role for England in the World Cup. Kane also provided a humorous moment in a post-match interview after losing his voice following England’s victory against Mexico.
These developments highlight a dynamic period for FC Bayern, with significant changes across its men’s, women’s, and youth teams, both on and off the pitch.
Source: https://miasanrot.de/fc-bayern-news-geruechte-tanguy-nianzou-transfer/
