Bayern Munich Honorary President Hoeness: 'Barcelona Wouldn't Be Allowed in Top Flight in Another Country!'

Uli Hoeness, honorary president of Bayern Munich, has sharply criticized Barcelona's economic management, highlighting his own club's model as an example to follow. Speaking on the "OMR" podcast, Hoeness launched one of his harshest attacks against the Catalan club, describing Barcelona's model as one that should not exist in elite football.

Hoeness stated: "Barcelona is not the model I envision. In any other country, they wouldn't remain in the top flight. When you have a debt of 1.3 billion euros, how is that supposed to work?"

He added: "I find it absurd and incomprehensible that they are still playing in the top division. It's a club model I will never respect. In any normal country, a club managed this way wouldn't even be in the top flight. Frankly, it's a miracle they are still allowed to play in the first division."

Hoeness emphasized that Barcelona has been spending more than it earns for years, yet continues to compete at the highest levels. He said: "This completely contradicts the oversight we have at Bayern and our sound economy, which should be an example for all clubs in Europe. We can be proud of strong management, economic standards, and sporting quality that does not rely on financial maneuvers."

Hoeness clarified that Barcelona would have no future in the German league, concluding: "The strict German licensing regulations and the pressure of audits would immediately cripple a club with a debt of 1.3 billion euros."