Manuel Neuer says that every Bayern Munich player "must have a bad conscience" as they are to be blamed for the failure of "top coach" Thomas Tuchel.
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Tuchel to leave in the summerNeuer blamed players for performancesHailed Tuchel as a master tacticianGettyWHAT HAPPENED?
Bayern have already announced that they would get rid of Tuchel at the end of the season after the shock loss to Bochum earlier in February. The reigning champions have been inconsistent with their form since the start of the season and Neuer believes that the players are more at fault for their underwhelming displays than Tuchel – who should have been spared the rod.
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When Neuer was asked how the players reacted to Tuchel's exit news, he said: "It casts a bad image on all of us, on the team, on the players, because we didn't manage to deal with it like that to continue with a top coach. It's not always the teacher's fault if grades are bad. We have a responsibility when a good coach is dismissed. We now want to continue the path professionally to the end."
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Bayern got back to winning ways against RB Leipzig in front of home fans on Saturday, riding on a brace from Harry Kane, but the victory will not be enough to change Tuchel's future at Allianz Arena.
Neuer added: "Everyone has to have a bad conscience. This doesn't include the coaching team alone, but us too. That's why you always have to look after your own nose."
Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT?
Bayern remain determined to defend their Bundesliga title but Bayer Leverkusen must slip to provide them with a glimmer of hope. With 11 matchdays to go, they currently trail by eight points and will be back in action against Freiburg on next Friday.