Uli Hoeness has revealed how Jurgen Klopp almost became Bayern Munich manager.
Klopp will renew his rivalry with the current Bundesliga champions when they take on Liverpool in the first leg of their Champions League last 16 encounter.
The Reds boss famously dislodged Bayern during his time with Borussia Dortmund as they both captured the German title in successive seasons.
He also faced off against the Bavarians in the 2013 Champions League final.
But Hoeness has claimed that Klopp nearly found himself in Bayern’s hot seat a decade ago as they sought a replacement for the outgoing Ottmar Hitzfeld.
He said: “Personally, I have a high opinion of Jurgen Klopp.
“Many years ago we agreed on a collaboration together, but we ended up signing Jurgen Klinsmann instead.
“There I showed I respect him and his work a lot. It’s going to be a tough task for both sides. I hope we’ll come out on top.”