Bayern Munich has cancelled plans to bring back former defender Jerome Boateng for an internship under coach Vincent Kompany following widespread protests from supporters over his past conviction.
The club had initially approved a short-term internship to help Boateng complete his UEFA A coaching license, allowing him to gain hands-on experience with Bayern’s technical staff. Kompany, who once played alongside Boateng at Manchester City, reportedly supported the move.
However, the decision sparked outrage among Bayern fans, both online and in the stadium. Supporters cited Boateng’s 2024 conviction for intentional bodily harm against his former partner, demanding that the club uphold its values. Banners with messages such as “No place for violence at Bayern” were displayed, and a petition titled “Set boundaries against misogynistic violence” gathered thousands of signatures.
In response to the backlash, Bayern and Boateng mutually agreed to cancel the internship.
The German expressed regret over the controversy but said he would now focus on completing his A license and his business ventures, RYZR and Arena2.
He posted on Instagram:
“After the recent discussions surrounding me, I’ve decided to focus on my topics, the A license, RYZR, and Arena2. That’s where my focus is right now, and yours should be on the pitch and the team’s winning run.”
Bayern also released a statement confirming the decision: “In a constructive exchange this week, it was agreed that Jérôme Boateng will not be an intern at FC Bayern. Jérôme feels very connected to FC Bayern and does not want the club to suffer any damage due to the current controversial discussion.”
The uproar traces back to a long legal battle that began in 2018 after Boateng was accused of assaulting his former partner, Sherin Senler. Though he denied the allegations, courts found him guilty after several retrials. His initial fine of €1.8 million was later reduced, and in 2024 he was given a suspended fine of €200,000 and ordered to donate €100,000 to charity.
While he avoided jail time and no criminal record was issued, the case significantly tarnished his reputation and affected his career opportunities.
Despite the cancelled internship, Bayern Munich stressed that Boateng remains part of the club’s legacy and thanked him for understanding the decision. Kompany has urged the team and fans to focus on Bayern’s ongoing season.
Boateng, who retired earlier in 2025 after a decorated career that included nine Bundesliga titles and two Champions League wins, is now concentrating on his post-playing ventures and coaching education.
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