Sad To Be Left By Flick, Lewandowski Welcomes Nagelsmann's Arrival

JAKARTA - Robert Lewandowski expressed his joy at the appointment of Julian Nagelsmann and is ready to welcome him as Bayern Munich coach next season.

The Polish striker confirmed that the current RB Leipzig coach had exceeded expectations at the start of his coaching career.

Bayern has confirmed that Nagelsmann will replace Hansi Flick as coach at the Allianz Arena at the end of the season.

The Bundesliga champions have reportedly agreed to a compensation fee of 25 million euros (around Rp438 billion) to bring in Nagelsmann from RB Leipzig, making him the most expensive coach in the world.

The 33-year-old coach is rumored to be signing a five-season contract with Bayern.

Lewandowski stated that he was ready to welcome Nagelsmann's arrival, having seen his progress in leading Hoffenheim to the Champions League before turning Leipzig into an elite force on the domestic and European stage.

"I don't know Julian Nagelsmann very well, but all I can say is that he always manages to improve the team to levels you don't imagine," the 32-year-old striker told German media Sport Bild.

"The Nagelsmann team's performance was largely above expectations, it is more than just the quality of a player."

Meanwhile, Bayern president Uli Hoeness added that Nagelsmann was a very good choice.

Lewandowski later admitted he was sad to part with Flick after enjoying a strong relationship with the 56-year-old coach during his time at Bayern Munich.

"He is not only a great coach, but he is also a great person," said the Polish striker. "You can also talk to him about personal matters."

"We have achieved historic things with Hansi Flick. So far it has been my best time at Bayern, he has always given us a clear plan of what to expect."

Nagelsmann insists that he remains fully focused on his duties at Leipzig until he officially becomes Bayern's new coach on 1 July.

RB Leipzig is still competing for the DFB Pokal and Bundesliga trophies.

"It's too early to say goodbye and talk about memories instead because I'm not finished here in Leipzig," he told reporters after Tuesday's announcement.

"My mission will end in the summer, but until then we will continue at full speed. We have grown into a committed group that ultimately wants to win trophies."