Jupp Heynckes retired after his fourth and final spell at FC Bayern less than two months ago. Now he has returned for a special occasion. Along with FC Bayern München AG chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge he opened the special exhibition Jupp Heynckes - Player, Coach, Gentleman. Heynckes was as delighted with the reunion with his old colleagues as he was with the exhibition, which he has supported with numerous exhibits from his professional and private life.
"It's nice to be back as part of a little trip," Heynckes told the guests, including FC Bayern München eV president Uli Hoeneß and Heynckes' former assistants Hermann Gerland and Peter Hermann. The native Rhinelander was modest and grounded as ever. He accepted all the warm words and expressions of gratitude with a smile. Rummenigge stressed: "With this special exhibition we would like to bow down to Jupp Heynckes, who is not only a great coach but above all our club's best friend." They recalled the times that bound Heynckes and the FC Bayern officials together as sportsmen and as people.
An exclusive film shot at the 73-year-old's farm in Schwalmtal is the key element of the exhibition. It reveals many things about Heynckes as a sportsperson and in private. Besides, the exhibits portray many stories from his impressive career. Rummenigge stressed: "The relationship between Jupp and FC Bayern is very special. He was our coach four times, and we could always rely on him." Jupp Heynckes embodies values like diligence, manners, respect, ambition, tolerance and many more. The carefully selected exhibits reflect all of them. The mementoes not only recall an outstanding career on and off the pitch but also Heynckes' private life. Jerseys and tracksuits worn by Heynckes, the 1974/75 top scorer trophy, a 1974 World Cup ball, but also old class photos, inspiring music and garden gloves that are in daily use on Heynckes' farm are on display from now until 2019.
"I had to buy new gloves," Heynckes said with a grin as he strolled through the exhibition. The pensioner has returned to the Rhineland, but FC Bayern Erlebniswelt visitors can still immerse themselves in the unparalelled career of a unique man.
