Bayern Munich CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen is approaching the massive Champions League showdown against Paris Saint-Germain with a perfect blend of humility and confidence—a mindset that could make all the difference for the Bavarians.
The first leg was nothing short of a rollercoaster. Bayern fell 5-2 behind before mounting a spirited comeback to make it 5-4, leaving everyone with mixed emotions. On one hand, that late surge proves the team has the fighting spirit and momentum to turn things around. On the other, conceding five goals in a single Champions League match is a stark reminder of the defensive work still needed.
Dreesen, who stepped into the CEO role after years as the club's CFO, understands the emotional weight of such a tie. "On a day like this, you're first and foremost a football fan; I feel the same as millions of others: excitement, nerves, the whole range of emotions," he shared via the club's official website. He also expressed delight that head coach Vincent Kompany can return to the touchline after watching from the press box in Paris.
But Dreesen's message isn't just about feelings—it's about balance. "It was clear from the outset that these two matches against Paris would demand everything from us. At half-time we're a goal down – and that's exactly how we need to approach it, with humility, because Paris have an outstanding team, but at the same time with confidence."
He recalled the post-match atmosphere in Paris as unlike any he's seen after a Champions League game. "I praised the team there; they deserved it, but I also warned them that we have a goal to make up. We mustn't let up for a single second."
What gives Dreesen genuine confidence? Bayern's staggering home form. "We've already scored 85 goals at the Allianz Arena this season, 20 of them in the Champions League alone." That attacking firepower is exactly what fans will be hoping to see—more goals, just like in the first leg, but this time overwhelmingly for the home side.
Everyone expects another goal-fest, not a repeat of the tight 2020 Champions League final. For Bayern, the mission is clear: ride that home scoring wave and book a ticket to their first UCL final since that triumph in Lisbon.