MF Exclusive: the day Pep Guardiola surrendered to Roger Schmidt

Hired in 2012 to be the first coach of the new RB Salzburg project, Roger Schmidt became national champion in only the second season (2013/14). However, it was a winter friendly against the then European champions Bayern Munich, in January 2014, that really led the German to attract the spotlight in Europe.

On that occasion, in a duel played in Austria, the Bavarian team led by Pep Guardiola fielded maximum strength against the hosts: Neuer, Alaba, Kroos, Thiago Alcântara, Shaqiri, Gotze, Muller, Mandzukic and Rafinha. It was no use. They ended up defeated 3-0.

“I have never seen a team play with as much intensity as Salzburg,” praised Guardiola, speaking to the local press, shortly after the stumble.

The victory, among other reasons, boosted the start of Schmidt’s career, who, a few months later, was signed by Leverkusen. The match, in fact, remains in the memory of that Austrian team to this day.

«Bayern did not expect such an aggressive game from our team, as the club was not yet a force like it is today. We were always very respected inside Austria, but outside we lacked a little knowledge. It was a remarkable game, which had all this repercussion”, highlighted former Brazilian center Rodnei, in an interview with More football.

Now on Benfica’s side, Roger Schmidt is preparing to face RB Salzburgo again, this Wednesday, in Luz, in the debut of the Champions League.