Bayern Munich has tendered an unreserved apology to Nasser Al-Khelaifi, the president of Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), over the actions of their fans who displayed a banner that targeted him on Tuesday during their Champions League clash at the Allianz Arena.
The displayed banner criticized the PSG president’s so many influential positions in football, including PSG owner, UEFA Executive Committee member, European Club Association chairman, and beIN chairman, regarding him with the adjective “plutocratic” and using an expletive.
“FC Bayern would like to apologise when its opponents and their representatives in its stadium feel personally attacked in this manner and tone, and are offended as a result,” Bayern said in a statement.
“The club would like to make it clear that these banners were not authorised by FC Bayern and do not reflect its stance. They are not in keeping with the good and long-standing relationship between the two clubs.
“The tone of these banners also goes against the style of FC Bayern and the respectful relationship the club has with its international partners.”
Bayern Munich trashed the French team PSG 1-0 after a goal from Kim Min-Jae, while PSG played almost all the second half with 10 men after Ousmane Dembélé was shown a red card.
Nasser Al-Khelaifi is a controversial person among the fans of Bayern Munich, and he is scrutinized for a likely conflict of interest because of his multiple involvements in European football and broadcasting.
Al-Khelaifi’s role in shaping Champions League strategy and beIN’s job as a major broadcaster is the reason for the criticism that he gets.
The fans of Bayern are known for going against Qatar’s involvement in football, and the inclusion of their club’s former sponsorship deal with Qatar Airways that was not renewed last year was due to fans opposition.
The banner displays the frustration that football lovers bottle inside of them over the PSG president’s control in global sports.