Tuchel defends Boateng: “Innocent until proven guilty”

Thomas Tuchel shared his thoughts on the criticism Bayern have faced over their decision to let Jerome Boateng train with the team.

Bayern Munich coach Thomas Tuchel has defended the German champions’ decision to let Jerome Boateng train on a trial basis with the possibility of signing the centre-back.

Back in September 2021, Boateng was found guilty of assaulting his ex-girlfriend and sentenced to 60 days of daily fines. After Boateng appealed, the verdict was overturned in September 2023 and the defender is currently awaiting a retrial.

Bayern’s pursuit of the former Germany international, who played for the club between 2011 and 2021, has drawn criticism in light of the ongoing trial, but with the case adjourned, Tuchel believes Boateng should be considered innocent until proven guilty.

“You are innocent until proven guilty when a trial is deferred. As a football club, we have the right to make football decisions. Jérôme is a player of great merit and has the right to train with us,” Tuchel told a press conference attended by Bulinews.com ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League clash with FC Copenhagen.

The fact that Bayern were recently forced to play Noussair Mazraoui and Leon Goretzka out of position in central defense due to injuries in a DFB-Pokal match against Preussen Münster underlined the need for an extra centre-back in the squad.

“You know his position, you know what the situation was with the cup game. Jérôme is in Munich anyway and has kept himself fit. He’s training with us now and we’ll see what we decide,” said Tuchel.

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