Heynckes: "This is probably my last opportunity"

Posted Saturday, May 25, 2013 by Marca.com

Heynckes:

Bayern Munich boss Jupp Heynckes has claimed that the Champions League final in London likely represents his last chance to secure European silverware.

"Last Saturday was my last Bundesliga match as a coach and tomorrow will probably be my last opportunity to hold one of these trophies in my hands", Heynckes told reporters at Wembley.

The Champions League final represents the 67-year-old's Bayern swansong, with Pep Guardiola waiting in the wings to replace him this summer. Heynckes previously lifted the Champions League with Real Madrid in 1998, his first and only campaign at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Having strung together a coaching career spanning over two decades and taking him all over Europe, the former Athletic de Bilbao, Bayer Leverkusen and Benfica coach stated that Saturday night's clash at Wembley is "just another match" for him.

"For my team and, in particular, the older players, [lifting the trophy] would be the crowning glory of their careers, especially because it's against another German team. I'm a bit more laid-back, because I've it experienced it before with Real Madrid", observed the veteran tactician.

Heynckes is confident that Bayern Munich will shake off its curse – the Bavarians have lost three Champions League finals in the last four years – to reclaim a trophy it last won back in 2001. "I've always tried to think positively. I know my team can do it – we have a fantastic squad that works really well as a unit".

"Here's hoping the footballing gods are on our side. I think playing in the final at Wembley is a special incentive for the players", he concluded.