Former Germany international Jerome Boateng has withdrawn from a proposed coaching placement at Bayern Munich following supporter protests linked to his 2024 conviction for assaulting his ex-partner.
The 37-year-old retired defender had been set to observe training sessions under manager Vincent Kompany, who played alongside him at Manchester City.
The arrangement was cancelled after supporters voiced strong objections to his presence at the club. Boateng received a suspended fine and warning from a Munich court last year after being found guilty of premeditated bodily harm against his former partner.
Despite backing from Kompany and club management, who believed in rehabilitation opportunities, the controversial discussions surrounding Boateng led to the decision being reversed this week.
Jerome Boateng, who spent a decade at Bayern, had been invited to intern as a coach
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Bayern supporters organised visible demonstrations against Boateng's potential return, displaying banners during the recent victory over Borussia Dortmund that told him to "p*** off".
The banners stated "Whoever gives the perpetrator space shares his guilt", reflecting the strength of feeling among the fanbase.
An online petition entitled "Setting borders against misogynistic violence: Jerome Boateng should not be allowed back to Bayern Munich" attracted several thousand signatures.
The campaign highlighted supporters' concerns about the message his presence would send regarding violence against women.
The protests emerged immediately after news of the proposed placement became public, with demonstrations appearing in the fan section at the Allianz Arena last Saturday evening.
Boateng addressed the situation on Instagram, writing to Bayern and Kompany: "Following the recent discussion regarding myself, I have decided to focus on my issues such as the A training license... that is where my focus is."
Vincent Kompany played with Jerome Boateng at Manchester City
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He expressed gratitude for the trust shown by club leadership and Kompany whilst urging the team to concentrate on extending their 13-match winning streak.
Bayern confirmed the cancellation through an official statement, explaining that during constructive discussions, both parties agreed Boateng would not undertake the placement.
The club noted that "Jerome feels very connected to FC Bayern and does not want FC Bayern to suffer damage as a result of the current controversial discussion surrounding him."
The World Cup winner spent a decade at Bayern following his 2011 transfer from Manchester City, establishing himself as one of the club's most successful defenders.
During his tenure at the Bavarian giants, he secured nine Bundesliga championships and lifted the Champions League trophy twice, accumulating 11 additional honours.
Jerome Boateng was found guilty last year of assaulting a former partner
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Boateng earned 76 caps for Germany between 2009 and 2018, featuring prominently in their 2014 World Cup triumph in Brazil.
He announced his retirement from professional football last month after his contract with Austrian club LASK Linz was terminated by mutual agreement in August, despite having another year remaining on his deal.