Arsene Wenger target for Bayern Munich

Legendary manager Arsene Wenger is reportedly apart of a four-man shortlist that the Bayern Munich hierarchy have compiled to replace the recently departed Niko Kovac.

It was reported that Kovac was sacked following Die Roten’s 5-1 humiliation at the hands of the Croatian’s former club Eintracht Frankfurt, however, Kovac confirmed he and his assistant, his brother Robert, handed in their resignations.

The former Croatian national manager cited the reason for his departure was down to the fact that he felt that he could no longer take this squad further.

The former Bayern Munich defender was appointed at the start of last campaign following his impressive stint at Frankfurt where he won a DFB Pokal, beating Bayern and his successor Jupp Heynckes in the final.

Kovac managed to secure the domestic double but it wasn’t plain sailing as suffered intense criticism from the fans and the media as he failed to manage the big ego’s of the dressing room effectively.

The Bavarians had a relatively poor start compared to their high standards and have been relying heavily on the individual quality of Robert Lewandowski to get three points on a consistent basis.

The heavy defeat at Frankfurt accelerated the decision to part ways with Kovac and assistant Hansi Flick will take over for the Champions League fixture against Olympiacos and a Bundesliga match-up against title-rivals Borussia Dortmund.

With Bayern looking for a manager, former Arsenal manager Wenger has been one of the few names to be touted for the prestigious job.

Odds of Next Bayern Munich Manager

7/4- Jose Mourinho

7/2- Erik ten Hag

5/1- Massimiliano Allegri

5/1- Ralf Rangnick

8/1- Arsene Wenger

It is said that the hierarchy of the reigning Bundesliga champions are huge fans of Wenger especially considering his ability to speak fluent German.

The blend of his attacking football philosophy, ability to improve the youth players and his elite resume makes him a stand-out candidate for one of Europe’s elite.

However, current RB Leipzig director Ralf Rangnick is the top target and the 61-year-old did manage Leipzig last campaign where he led them to an impressive 3rd place in the Bundesliga.

Current Ajax manager Erik ten Hag is also reportedly a huge favourite amongst the Bayern hierarchy. His team’s run to the semi-finals in the Champions League captivated the world and the Dutch manager has great knowledge of Bayern, which makes him a favourite for the job.

The 49-year-old was with the German giants during Pep Guardiola’s tenure in Munich where ten Hag managed the reserve team.

However, it is unlikely that ten Hag would be appointed as Ajax would not let him leave in the middle of the season.