Bayern Munich head coach,Thomas Tuchel, has addressed the recent incident involving Sadio Mane, the former Liverpool forward who allegedly assaulted his teammate Leroy Sane after their loss to Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League. Mane reportedly punched Sane in the locker room following Bayern’s 3-0 defeat in the first leg of their quarter-final tie.
Tuchel, speaking publicly for the first time since the incident, acknowledged that it was a serious matter but stated that the situation had been resolved after crisis meetings the following morning. Mane has been suspended and fined by Bayern Munich, and Tuchel confirmed that he will be included back into the team next week.
ALSO READ: Bayern Munich suspends Mane due to altercation with Sane in dressing room
Tuchel expressed disappointment over the leak of information from the locker room and emphasized the importance of keeping such matters confidential. He stated that Mane had apologized and he believed him, and that it was crucial for the player to continue training with the team. However, Tuchel noted that Mane’s suspension and fine will be decided by the club and the player, and it is not his highest priority.
When asked about Mane’s role model status for younger fans, Tuchel disagreed with the notion that the incident reflected poorly on the player. He stated that it would be ideal if locker room incidents stayed within the team, and that Bayern Munich does not tolerate such behavior. Tuchel also acknowledged that Mane has struggled since joining Bayern from Liverpool and agreed that the player appears to have lost his spark.
ALSO READ: Tuchel admits sleeplessness before Bayern vs Man City match
Sane, who suffered a cut to his lip in the altercation with Mane, reportedly requested Bayern’s management to spare Mane’s job. On Thursday morning, Mane and Sane were seen reunited in training. However, Bayern announced that Mane will not be traveling to Hoffenheim for Saturday’s Bundesliga match and will also be subject to a fine.
Mane is expected to be back in action for Bayern Munich in the second leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final tie on Wednesday, April 19th, 2023, at the Allianz Arena Stadium.
