Bayern Ancelotti’s under pressure after mauling

BERLIN: Bayern Munich coach Carlo Ancelotti is coming under increased scrutiny with club chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge speaking of “consequences” after the team’s heaviest defeat in the Champions League group stage.

Bayern’s 3- 0 loss at Paris St Germain on Wednesday was just the latest blow for the Italian coach, whose side gave away a two- goal lead to draw with Wolfsburg in the Bundesliga last Friday, coming after a third-round loss to Hoffenheim.

“It was a very bitter defeat,” Rummenigge said after PSG’s clinical display.

“A defeat which must be talked about, which must be analysed, and from which we must draw consequences.”

Ancelotti raised eyebrows with his starting line-up, leaving experienced wingers Franck Ribery and Arjen Robben as well as defender Mats Hummels on the bench, while Jerome Boateng didn’t even make the squad.

The Germany defender watched from the stands despite no notice given of any injury.

Robben only came on when Dani Alves, Edinson Cavani and Neymar had already put the French side out of sight.

Kylian Mbappe, another big-money signing beside Neymar, also starred for PSG.

Rummenigge did not show much sympathy for the coach or the players.

“I think what we saw tonight wasn’t Bayern Munich,” said Rummenigge, who ended his postmatch banquet speech at the fivestar L’Hotel du Collectionneur by saying, “It’s important that we turn the tide quickly and present ourselves as Bayern Munich.

“And then also to show that we’re a team that have made a splash in Europe and nationally over the last years, and to return to that.”

Ancelotti, who led Real Madrid to their 10th Champions League title in 2014 after claiming two titles with Milan in 2003 and 2007, was appointed by the Bayern bosses primarily for success in Europe’s premier competition.

Bayern next face a trip to Pal Dardai’s well-organised Hertha Berlin side in the Bundesliga on Sunday.

“We have to show a reaction there. We have to win there and nothing else,” Robben said.

“It’s also the last game before the international break.

“We’re already three points behind Dortmund.”

Attention, once again, will focus on Ancelotti’s selections. — AP

It’s important that we turn the tide quickly and present ourselves as Bayern Munich.

Karl-Heinz Rummenigge