Magath tempers Guardiola excitement

Felix Magath says Pep Guardiola could struggle to deliver on sky-high expectations following his appointment as Bayern Munich coach.

Bayern have received almost universal praise for the coup of capturing the former Barcelona coach, but Magath, who led Bayern to successive Bundesliga titles between 2004 and 2006, has warned that there is no guarantee Guardiola will be able to replicate his Barca success at the Allianz Arena.

“Guardiola’s being treated like a messiah before he’s even arrived at Bayern. He might have difficulties living up to the high expectations,” Magath said to Liga Total.

“We are all talking about all the titles that Guardiola has won in his career, but (outgoing Bayern coach) Jupp Heynckes could end up winning three trophies with Bayern this year. It will not be easy to surpass that.

“Guardiola is an experienced coach, but German football should not adapt to him. He will have to get used to the Bundesliga. He has all the qualities to become a success, though.”

Former Spain international Guardiola has signed a contract with Bayern until June 2016, while Magath has been out of coaching since his sacking from Wolfsburg in October 2012.