Hitzfeldturned down Real Madrid

Bayern Munich coach Ottmar Hitzfeld has admitted that he turned down the chance to manage Real Madrid.

Real approached him in the summer of 1997 after he led Dortmund to Champions League success.

However, Hitzfeld turned down the opportunity to move to Spain as he felt he needed a rest from the game.

“In June 1997, I wanted to have a break, and at the same moment, I got a concrete proposition from Real Madrid,” Hitzfeld told France Football.

“I could have signed, but I didn’t have enough power to start a new adventure.

“I was exhausted and I needed a break.

“Then, the Dortmund officials asked me to become the sport director for one season.”