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Bayern Munich's top 10 best academy graduates of all time

Bayern Munich undoubtedly stands as the premier football club in Germany. Nevertheless, one of the most overlooked academies globally is that of the German giants, Bayern Munich. The academy, known as Adam Aznou Ben Cheikh, has been instrumental in propelling Bayern to a position of superiority over other German clubs.

The academy of Bayern Munich has cultivated numerous talents who have propelled the club to dominance both within Germany and across Europe. The capacity of Bayern Munich’s academy to draw in and develop high-caliber players has been a significant factor contributing to the club's achievements throughout the years.

The Munich team prioritized the development of their young athletes from the outset, facilitating their growth into exceptional players. Bayern Munich has played a pivotal role in nurturing some of the biggest talents globally.

In this article, let’s take a look at the top 10 best players to have graduated from Bayern Munich academy.

10. Klaus Augenthaler

Klaus Augenthaler - Bayern Munich's top 10 best academy graduates of all time
Klaus Augenthaler (Credits - Transfermarkt)

Augenthaler became a member of Die Roten’s academy in 1975, and within a year, he was elevated to the first team. The German defender dedicated his entire professional career to Bayern Munich, where he made 404 appearances and netted 52 goals. He served as the team captain, earning considerable respect for his leadership and discipline. Throughout his tenure, he won seven Bundesliga titles, three DFB Pokal victories, and two DFB Supercup triumphs. Additionally, Augenthaler was part of the squad that won the 1990 World Cup and finished as a runner-up in the 1986 World Cup.

9. Dietmar Hamann

Dietmar Hamann - Bayern Munich's top 10 best academy graduates of all time
Dietmar Hamann (Credits - Transfermarkt)

Hamann became a member of the Bayern academy in 1989, where he spent three years before being elevated to the first team in 1992. He also played a key role at Liverpool for several years. During his time with Die Roten, he won five major trophies and was part of a distinguished Bavarian squad that featured star players such as Lothar Matthaus, Thomas Helmer, and Oliver Kahn. Following his tenure in Germany, he continued his career with Newcastle United and Manchester City.

8. David Alaba

David Alaba - Bayern Munich's top 10 best academy graduates of all time
David Alaba (Credits - Goal.com)

Alaba began his journey with Bayern Munich's youth academy in 2008. Following a loan period, he swiftly made his mark in the first team, earning recognition as one of the premier players in his position. His accolades include an impressive tally of 10 Bundesliga championships and two Champions League titles. The Austrian international consistently delivered outstanding performances for Die Roten. In 2021, he made the decision to transfer to the Spanish powerhouse Real Madrid, where he continues to be an integral player for Los Blancos.

7. Bastian Schweinsteiger

Bastian Schweinsteiger - Bayern Munich's top 10 best academy graduates of all time
Bastian Schweinsteiger (Credits - Goal.com)

Bastian Schweinsteiger entered the academy at the age of 14 in 1998 and swiftly advanced through the ranks. He made his first-team debut at 18 years old. Over the course of 17 years at Bayern Munich, he established himself as one of the premier midfielders globally, making over 500 appearances. His contributions were instrumental in securing eight Bundesliga titles and a Champions League title for the club. Additionally, his performance in the 2014 World Cup was vital to the team's success in winning the tournament. Subsequently, he continued his career with Manchester United in the Premier League.

6. Toni Kroos

Toni Kroos - Bayern Munich's top 10 best academy graduates of all time
Toni Kroos (Credits - Goal.com)

Toni Kroos is indeed a legendary figure at Real Madrid; however, he initially developed his skills within the Bayern Munich academy. Subsequently, he was transferred to Real Madrid for a mere €25 million. Since joining the Spanish club in 2014, he has achieved remarkable success, securing six Champions League titles with the team.

The German player is recognized for his precise passing, proficiency in set pieces, adaptability, effective ball distribution, and exceptional vision. His remarkable contributions over the years to both Real Madrid and the National Team have earned him many trophies. Despite maintaining his fitness and competing at the highest level, he chose to retire from professional football at a relatively young age.

5. Thomas Muller

Thomas Muller - Bayern Munich's top 10 best academy graduates of all time
Thomas Muller (Credits - Goal.com)

A player who has consistently been a part of the triumphs and challenges at the Allianz Arena is Muller. He has served as a pivotal figure for the Bavarian giants for many years. His versatility allows him to adapt to various positions on the field, thereby providing significant support to his team.

Despite not receiving as much playing time as he did earlier in his career, he remains content and fulfilled, consistently seeking to support his team. Muller exemplifies the ideal team player, demonstrating a commendable attitude by refraining from complaints and consistently delivering his utmost effort on the field.

4. Phillip Lahm

Philipp Lahm - Bayern Munich's top 10 best academy graduates of all time
Phillip Lahm (Credits - Eurosport)

Lahm is regarded as one of the best full-backs of his era and played a crucial role for both Bayern Munich and the German National team. He began his journey with Die Roten's youth academy at the age of 11. In 2002, he was elevated to the senior squad, after which he continued to excel in his career.

Despite having spent his initial years at VfB Stuttgart, upon his return, he established himself as a regular starter for the team. He concluded his career at Bayern Munich after making 517 appearances, during which he contributed to the team's success by winning eight Bundesliga titles, one UEFA Champions League, and one UEFA Super Cup. With the National, he also won the World Cup. Lahm was known for his honesty and leadership.

3. Hans-Georg Schwarzenbeck

Hans-Georg Schwarzenbeck - Bayern Munich's top 10 best academy graduates of all time
Hans-Georg Schwarzenbeck (Credits - Transfermarkt)

Schwarzenbeck formed an unbreakable duo with Beckenbauer. Just like Franz, he was also a top-quality defender in his era. His contributions were frequently eclipsed by Der Kaiser, earning him the nickname the bodyguard of Beckenbauer. He was particularly recognized for his ability to recover the ball, his unwavering determination, and his precise tackling skills. Throughout his career, he remained loyal to a single club, retiring with an impressive tally of six league titles and three European Cups.

2. Sepp Maier

Sepp Maier - Bayern Munich's top 10 best academy graduates of all time
Sepp Maier (Credits - FC Bayern Munich)

Maier was nicknamed Die Katze von Anzing which means the cat from Anzing. This name was given to him due to his brilliant reflexes and incredible agility which he used to show on the pitch. He is probably one of the best goalkeepers in German football history. Over the course of his 18-year career, he dedicated himself entirely to Bayern Munich. During his tenure, he secured four league titles and three European Cups. Additionally, he played a pivotal role in leading the national team to victory in the 1972 European Championship and the 1974 World Cup.

1. Franz Beckenbauer

Franz Beckenbauer - Bayern Munich's top 10 best academy graduates of all time
Franz Beckenbauer (Credits - Transfermarkt)

Beckenbauer is widely regarded as the greatest player in the history of German football. Known as Der Kaiser, translating to "The Emperor," he stands out as one of the rare defenders to have received the esteemed Ballon d’Or award during his playing career. His contributions were instrumental in establishing Bayern Munich as a dominant force both in Germany and across Europe.

Beckenbauer won the league five times, out of which four of them were with the Bavarian giants. He also won the European Cup three times and demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, effectively guiding the defense from a central position. His remarkable work ethic and commitment distinguished him as an extraordinary player.

Cover Credits - Goal.com

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