The war of words between Bayern Munich and the German national team has escalated, with DFB director Andreas Rettig firing back at Uli Hoeneß after the Bayern honorary president publicly criticized Julian Nagelsmann.

Hoeneß, 74, didn't hold back in his assessment of the Germany manager, questioning Nagelsmann's inability to settle on a consistent starting XI and suggesting the coach overestimates his own importance. It's a familiar critique from the Bayern legend, who has never been shy about voicing his opinions on German football's biggest figures.

But Rettig wasn't about to let those comments slide. "I don't recall anyone from the DFB asking Mr. Hoeneß to issue an interim report for Mr. Nagelsmann," Rettig hit back. "I also don't know his motivation and what's driving him to say that now."

The DFB director then turned the tables, reminding everyone of Nagelsmann's track record. "Our coach isn't as bad as some people claim. We always had at least eight, at times up to ten injured players. That could not be blamed on the coach."

Perhaps the most pointed remark came next, as Rettig highlighted the irony of Hoeneß's criticism. "Uli Hoeneß' Bayern paid €25m for Julian Nagelsmann, and would gladly have brought him back after his dismissal. There must be a reason for that."

The timing couldn't be more critical, with the World Cup drawing closer and Germany looking to rebuild after recent tournament disappointments. The question now is whether Hoeneß will respond or let this latest salvo stand unanswered.

For fans following the drama, it's another chapter in the complex relationship between Bayern Munich and the national team - two institutions that often share personnel but don't always see eye to eye on how to develop German football's future.