Bayern Munich coach Jupp Heynckes praised his players for everything they’ve achieved this season after lifting the UEFA Champions League title, following a thrilling 2-1 winagainst Borussia Dortmund on Saturday. “What we’ve achieved so far this season – because it’s not over yet, we still have the German Cup final next weekend – has beenoutstanding,” he said. “There’s never been a Bundesliga team that’s consistently played at such a high level, winning the championship by 25 points, breaking almost all records.”
The German coach singled out Dutch winger Arjen Robben for special praise. Robben, who has not been automatic first choice for Heynckes this season, assisted Bayern’sfirst goal and then scored the winner in the 89th minute. “In the last few weeks, I have been very aware of Arjen, very conscious of how I train with him, taking care of his fitness to make surehe didn’t get injured. I’m particularly pleased for him; last year we were all tragic figures, not just Arjen, but today he was crucial. Yesterday I said to him: ‘Arjen, you’re in good form,really good form, and tomorrow that’s going to be one of the crucial factors.’”
Meanwhile, Dortmund coach Jurgen Klopp had a lot less to say after the matchthan he normally does. “I need a moment to feel proud again but I’m sure it’s slumbering within me — I am proud of my team, but at the moment it’s the disappointment that prevails,” hesaid.