Jerome Boateng Cancels Bayern Munich Internship After Fan Protests Over Assault Conviction

Jérôme Boateng, the retired Bayern Munich and Germany defender, has withdrawn from a planned coaching internship at Bayern Munich following significant fan opposition. The backlash stems from Boateng being found guilty in 2024 of premeditated bodily harm against his former partner, leading to a suspended fine and warning, which many fans protested through petitions and banners. Boateng expressed his decision to focus on completing his A coaching license and thanked Bayern's leadership and coach Vincent Kompany for the opportunity. Bayern Munich officially confirmed the cancellation, citing Boateng's wish not to harm the club amid the controversies. Despite the legal issues, Boateng had a distinguished playing career, winning nine Bundesliga titles and two Champions League trophies with Bayern, and the 2014 World Cup with Germany. The club's CEO acknowledged the complexity of the case and mentioned support for resocialization, but fan sentiment ultimately influenced the decision to cancel the internship.