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Robben& Ribery pays tribute to Heinx 80: Everything we spend together connects us for a lifetime

8:11am, 13 May 2025【Football】

May 10th, Bayern meritorious coach Heinx celebrated his 80th birthday, and club legend Ribery and Robben wrote an article to pay tribute to him. The full text is as follows:

Dear Yup,

When we recall the time we spent with you, countless precious memories come to our hearts. To us, you are not only a coach, but also a kind father. You know us, not only as players, but also as ordinary people. You have successfully shaped a team that not only excels on the court, but also unites on the court. The way you treat us is unique: always full of positive energy and always accurately grasp the team's needs at a specific moment.

In 2013, we made history together and we achieved the first triple-champion in the history of the club. When we think back to that year, the first thing that comes to our minds is that moment: on May 25, in the 89th minute of Wembley Stadium, Frank (Ribary) passed the ball with his heel, and Al Young (Robben) sent the ball into the net - Bayern led 2-1! That feeling is hard to describe. This moment is not just a goal or a final victory, it is the result of a whole season's efforts. From the beginning, team spirit, passion and mindset of enjoying the game are perfectly integrated. More importantly, our coaches are always fully prepared for us, and it is him who makes us a united and supportive team, which is the key to our success.

However, this is not the only time you have shown us our potential. When you return again in 2017, many people doubt: Is this really OK? But we know you are the right person. At that time, Bayern ranked second in the league, five points behind Dortmund, which was an unusual situation for the club. But with you on the sidelines, we soon understand: we will be back. You gave us stability and let us know clearly what to do. Finally, we firmly confirmed the championship in round 29, and you seemed to simply press the switch.

We will never forget all this: you are always willing to listen, whether the topic is about football or off the court. In front of you, we can be honest, open our hearts, and even occasionally vent our emotions. And the next day, we will continue to move forward together. This human side makes you unique and not only makes us better as players, but also makes us grow as humans.

Your trust makes us strong, you give us freedom, and at the same time set clear principles. Discipline, respect, unity - These are not empty words to you, but values ​​that you practice. Everyone in the locker room knows what you are sticking to, and because of this, you always have our full support.

When we look at young players today, we often think: What if they could learn from a coach like you? There are many things, not only how to win the competition, but also how to lead a team and communicate with people. You never make noise, but you always speak in a good way; you never domineeringly, and you are always everywhere. This is perhaps the biggest compliment to a coach.

We are grateful to meet you during this journey, and everything we experience together connects us throughout our lives. Sometimes, when we recall that time, it seems that we can still smell the grass fragrance of Wembley Stadium again, just before the game is about to begin, the feeling of expectation still exists.

Yup, you are a great coach, and more importantly, you influence each of us. We have experienced many incredible things both on and off the court. Therefore, on your 80th birthday, we sincerely wish you good health, happiness and more good times with your family.