Jurgen Klopp almost became Bayern Munich boss: Uli Hoeness

Jurgen Klopp almost took charge of Bayern Munich as long ago as 2008, according to president Uli Hoeness.

But the German giants instead plumped for Jurgen Klinsmann, who was sacked after only one season.

Hoeness has spoken of his great respect for Klopp as Bayern prepare to come face-to-face with the Liverpool boss in the Champions League next week.

Jurgen Klopp was close to being appointed manager of Bayern Munich back in 2008

But the German giants made a move for Jurgen Klinsmann, who lasted only one season

‘Personally, I have a high opinion of Jurgen Klopp,’ he told reporters.

‘Many years ago we agreed on a collaboration together, but we ended up signing Jurgen Klinsmann instead.

‘There I showed I respect him and his work a lot.’

Rejected by Munich, Klopp instead joined Borussia Dortmund where he enjoyed great success.

Bayern president Uli Hoeness has made the revelations ahead of next week’s trip to Liverpool

Klopp took charge of Borussia Dortmund instead and won back-to-back league titles

He led them to back-to-back Bundesliga titles before joining Liverpool in 2015.

Hoeness is expecting a difficult European knock-out tie ahead of next week’s Anfield visit, but remains optimistic about his side’s chances. 

‘It’s going to be a tough task for both sides. I hope we’ll come out on top’, he said.