As Bayern Munich prepare to face Inter Milan in the Champions League, the air crackles with possibility. The storied German giants stand at the precipice of another final – not as favourites perhaps, but as bearers of a tradition steeped in continental triumph. Vincent Kompany’s side may remain outsiders in the Champions League winner odds, shadowed by the looming silhouettes of Real Madrid and Barcelona, but they carry something more valuable than favourable odds: the inherited wisdom of champions.
This is a club where European glory isn’t merely hoped for but expected, where the weight of the past propels rather than burdens, especially with this year’s final in Bavaria at the Allianz.
As they march toward another potential final, the ghosts of their recent European conquests walk alongside them – the architects who transformed heartbreak into glory, who rebounded from the cruel sting of defeat against Chelsea on home soil to create one of football’s most dominant dynasties.
Their DNA and ‘Mia San Mia’ remains woven into the fabric of today’s squad, where several veterans of those triumphant campaigns still patrol the pitch, carrying the institutional memory of what it means to conquer Europe.
In this article, we look back at Bayern’s recent Champions League history and celebrate the legends of recent times that have defined their dominance in Germany and found success in Europe over the last two decades.
Manuel Neuer
The cornerstone of Bayern’s success in Europe, Manuel Neuer redefined the role of a goalkeeper. His sweeping style and comfort with the ball at his feet set the benchmark for modern keepers.
He was instrumental in the club’s 2013 treble and again in 2020, pulling off key saves in both finals.
Calm under pressure, vocal in the box, and outrageously consistent, Neuer has worn the captain’s armband with distinction. Even now, as his career winds down, his presence still commands respect.
Thomas Müller
Thomas Müller is Mr. Bayern. His movement, intelligence, and unorthodox playing style have made him a Champions League icon.
The versatile midfielder is a Swiss army knife and played a key role in the 2013 victory and was central once again during the 2020 treble-winning campaign, offering goals, assists, and relentless work rate.
With over 140 Champions League appearances, he holds the record for most by a German outfield player.
Müller has a habit of showing up in the biggest moments, even without the flash of a traditional star.
Robert Lewandowski
While now leading the line for Barcelona, Robert Lewandowski’s legacy at Bayern Munich is undeniable.
The Polish striker was the focal point of the 2019/20 treble-winning side, finishing as the Champions League’s top scorer with 15 goals.
He produced standout performances against Chelsea, Barcelona and Lyon, combining clinical finishing with tireless pressing.
That season’s run is often hailed as one of the most dominant ever by an individual forward in Europe, and as the third top goal scorer in the competition’s history, Lewandowski is no doubt a Champions League legends and one of the best strikers in recent times.
Arjen Robben
Arjen Robben delivered one of the most iconic moments in Bayern’s European history with his 89th-minute winner in the 2013 final against Borussia Dortmund, stunning Jurgen Klopp’s side and, indeed, the football betting.
After missing a penalty in the 2012 final against Chelsea, the Dutch winger’s redemption a year later was the stuff of legends.
Known for his trademark cut-ins from the right and left-footed curlers, Robben was a constant menace on Europe’s biggest stage. He brought pace, flair, and a sense of inevitability to Bayern’s attack.
Franck Ribéry
You can’t mention Tobben without his partner in crime — Franck Ribéry, the other half of Bayern’s legendary wing pairing, was also instrumental in the 2013 treble-winning side.
The Frenchman’s creativity, drive and balance helped shape Bayern’s attacking identity during his 12 years at the club.
Voted UEFA Best Player in Europe in 2013, Ribéry’s performances throughout that campaign were world class and he was just unfortunate Lionel Messi’s 92 goal year perhaps overshadowed his achievements. Still, he remains one of Bayern’s most beloved players, a symbol of passion, loyalty and consistency.
