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Lothar Matthäus
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Lothar Herbert Matthäus (German pronunciation: [ˈloːtaʁ maˈtɛːʊs] ⓘ;[1] born 21 March 1961) is a German football pundit and former professional player and manager. He captained West Germany to victory in the 1990 FIFA World Cup and was awarded the Ballon d'Or. In 1991, he was named the first FIFA World Player of the Year, and remains the only German to have received the award. He was also included in the Ballon d'Or Dream Team in 2020.

Key Information

Matthäus was the first outfield player, and second overall after Antonio Carbajal, to appear at five FIFA World Cups (1982, 1986, 1990, 1994 and 1998); he remains one of only six male players to have done so, along with Antonio Carbajal, Rafael Márquez, Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Andrés Guardado. He also won UEFA Euro 1980, and played in the 1984, 1988 and 2000 UEFA European Championships. In 1999, aged 38, Matthäus was again voted German Footballer of the Year, having previously won the award in 1990.

Matthäus is the most capped German player of all time, retiring with a total of 150 appearances (83 for West Germany) in 20 years, and 23 goals. Matthäus is a member of the FIFA 100 list of the greatest living football players chosen by Pelé.[2] Diego Maradona said of Matthäus, "He is the best rival I've ever had. I guess that's enough to define him."[3]

A versatile and complete player, Matthäus is regarded as one of the greatest midfielders of all time, and was renowned for his perceptive passing, positional sense and well-timed tackling, as well as his powerful shooting. During his career, he usually played as a box-to-box midfielder, although late in his career he played as a sweeper.[4][5][6]

Early life

[edit]

Lothar Herbert Matthäus was born on 21 March 1961 in Erlangen, Bavaria, West Germany,[7] to Heinz (1930–2019) and Katharina (1931–2020) Matthäus. His father, who was born in southern Silesia, fled west across the Oder during the Soviet invasion in 1944, then worked as a canteen manager, while his mother worked for Puma.[8] He spent his early playing days in the youth team of 1. FC Herzogenaurach, located in a small town in Bavaria close to Nuremberg.[9]

Club career

[edit]

Matthäus started his professional career in 1979 with Borussia Mönchengladbach of the Bundesliga, for whom he played until 1984.[10] He then played for Bayern Munich from 1984 to 1988, winning the Bundesliga twice and the DFB-Pokal. They also reached the European Cup final in 1987, leading 1–0 for most of the game until two late goals gave FC Porto the win.[11]

Matthäus in 1995

Matthäus and Bayern teammate Andreas Brehme signed with Inter Milan of Serie A in 1988, winning the Scudetto in 1988–89 during their first season, and the Italian Supercup that year as well. Matthäus continued to enjoy further success with Inter, winning the UEFA Cup in 1991 and being named FIFA World Player of the Year. In the final, he scored a penalty in the first leg to help them to their victory over Roma.[11]

Returning to Bayern Munich in 1992, he won four Bundesliga titles, two DFB-Pokals, another UEFA Cup and reached a second European Cup final in 1999. The only major club football honour which eluded Matthäus, for competitions in which he played, was the UEFA Champions League. Famously, he came within two minutes of picking up a winners' medal in 1999, only to have his hopes dashed by Manchester United, who scored two last-minute goals in the final, after he was substituted in the 80th minute of play while the team was still leading 1–0. When the two teams went to collect their medals Matthäus removed his runners-up medal immediately after he received it – it was the second time he had been on the losing side in a final under similar circumstances; in the 1987 final, Bayern had been leading 1–0 most of the game until two late goals gave FC Porto the win. After Matthäus retired, Bayern would win the Champions League in 2000–01 and later that year the Intercontinental Cup. His last official match for Bayern took place in Munich on 8 March 2000 and was a Champions League match against Real Madrid, which Bayern won 4–1.[11]

During the 1999–2000 season, Matthäus moved from Bayern to New York City's MetroStars team of Major League Soccer in the United States. He played in the US from March to October 2000 and retired from professional football afterwards. During his season with the MetroStars, he traveled to St. Tropez when he was supposed to be rehabbing his back.[12]

Matthäus came out of retirement in 2018, at age 57, to play 50 minutes of 1. FC Herzogenaurach's final league game of the season. The team had already secured the league title, and the appearance allowed Matthäus to satisfy his ambition retiring with the club where his career started: "It was always my dream to play my last competitive game here."[13]

International career

[edit]
Matthäus (pictured in 1999) has won more international caps than any German with 150 and went to nine major international tournaments, serving as captain of the 1990 World Cup champions.

Early international career

[edit]

Matthäus was first called up in 1980 to the West German squad that won the UEFA Euro 1980 in Italy, making his international debut during the tournament in a 3–2 first round win against the Netherlands on 14 June; this was his only appearance in this edition of the competition.[14] He also played two games at the 1982 FIFA World Cup in Spain; he was brought on as a substitute in group stage games against Chile[15] and the infamous Disgrace of Gijón game versus Austria, which West Germany won 1–0, allowing both teams to advance from their group.[16] West Germany reached the final, losing to Italy at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid 3–1.[17]

Matthäus also had a regular place in the national team for the 1986 World Cup in Mexico, scoring the winner in the round of 16 against Morocco.[18] In the final at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City, despite his considerable play-making ability, he was assigned by coach Franz Beckenbauer to mark Argentina's Diego Maradona. Maradona did not score in the final, but his pass to Jorge Burruchaga with six minutes left in regulation time set up the winning goal for Argentina, and West Germany lost their second consecutive World Cup final, this time 3–2.[19]

At UEFA Euro 1988 in West Germany, Matthäus captained the team and scored a penalty against eventual champions Netherlands in the semi-final to give his team a 1–0 lead, but Ronald Koeman leveled the score with a penalty, and then Marco van Basten slid in the winning goal in the final minutes.[20]

1990s

[edit]
During the 1994 World Cup, Matthäus scored a penalty against Borislav Mihaylov in the quarter-finals against Bulgaria at Giants Stadium, New York City.

His immediate success in Italy's premier football league, the Serie A, was a precursor to the national team which finally managed to triumph at the 1990 FIFA World Cup held in Italy. Six of West Germany's squad played professionally there; Matthäus and the West German squad played most of the World Cup games at Inter's home stadium the San Siro. West Germany was the best team of the tournament and one of the few to choose an attacking style of play, contrary to previous German teams' more defensive style. Matthäus led his squad from midfield and scored four goals, including two in the team's opening group match, a 4–1 win against Yugoslavia.[21] He scored the only goal of the quarter-final against Czechoslovakia from a penalty awarded in the 25th minute of the match.[22] West Germany reached its third consecutive final, a rematch against Maradona-led Argentina, and this time Matthäus and his team emerged victorious 1–0 at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome thanks to Andreas Brehme converting an 85th minute penalty. Matthäus later said that playing the World Cup in Italy was "like playing a World Cup at home".[23] As team captain, Matthäus hoisted the last World Cup trophy before German reunification in 1990.[24]

Matthäus did not participate in the UEFA Euro 1992 in Sweden due to an injury, where a reunified Germany made the final but surprisingly lost 2–0 to Denmark.[25] At the 1994 FIFA World Cup hosted by the United States, he captained the team but now operated as sweeper. He scored a penalty in Germany's quarter-final match against Bulgaria at Giants Stadium in New York City, which was also his record-tying 21st World Cup match, but the Bulgarians scored twice in three minutes to upset the defending champions.[26] USA '94 was expected to be his last tournament, though he did not officially retire from international play. Matthäus was afterwards not called up for the national team, due to feuding with succeeding captain Jürgen Klinsmann and coach Berti Vogts. In his absence Germany won UEFA Euro 1996 which was held in England.[27]

Surprisingly, he was called up for the 1998 World Cup in France as a replacement for the injured Matthias Sammer.[15] He was on the bench for Germany's victory over the United States, but came in as a substitute against FR Yugoslavia and helped the team to a 2–2 draw.[28] He became the second player to appear in five different World Cup tournaments, tying the record of Mexican goalkeeper Antonio Carbajal.[29] In 2014, the record has also been tied by Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon,[29] who however has only played in four. In 2015, Homare Sawa and Formiga became the first footballers to appear for a record sixth time at the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup in Canada.[30] Matthäus played in all the rest of Germany's matches until Croatia knocked them out in Lyon 3–0 in the quarterfinals,[31] taking his total to a then-record 25[29] (since eclipsed by Lionel Messi).

Final international years

[edit]

Matthäus earned his last three caps at UEFA Euro 2000 in Belgium and the Netherlands, with his 150th cap being against Portugal, where Germany had a disastrous first round exit.[32] He had a poor performance in the first group game against Romania, causing Oliver Bierhoff and other key German players to demand his benching, but head coach Erich Ribbeck stuck by Matthäus.[33]

Coaching career

[edit]

One year after ending his illustrious playing career, Matthäus went into coaching, an activity where he has, so far, been much less distinguished. In his print interviews and other media appearances, he has been open about his goal and desire to coach in the German Bundesliga. His hope was that taking coaching jobs abroad would lead to offers from German clubs.

When none came his way even after multiple foreign appointments, he often brought it up in the German press in-between his coaching stints. In a lengthy November 2009 Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung interview, Matthäus complained about what he considers to be inadequate treatment he receives in Germany as a former great. He also bemoaned the lack of coaching job offers extended to him in the German Bundesliga—claiming German clubs perceive him as too much of a Bayern supporter and too closely linked with the influential Bild tabloid newspaper to give him a job.[34]

Rapid Wien

[edit]
Matthäus in Vienna in January 2002.

His first head coaching experience was at SK Rapid Wien in the Austrian Bundesliga, lasting from 6 September 2001[35] until 14 May 2002 with mixed results.[36] Matthäus got Rapid Wien to the second round of the UEFA Cup,[37] Round of 16 in the Austrian Cup,[37] and finished in eighth place in Bundesliga.[38]

Partizan

[edit]

In December 2002, looking to replace their recently sacked head coach Ljubiša Tumbaković, Serbian club FK Partizan hired Matthäus during mid-season winter break, signing the German to an 18-month contract.[39]

Inheriting a team at the top of the league table, Matthäus achieved the immediate goal of steering Partizan to the 2002–03 league title; and did so in convincing fashion, extending the lead over the second-placed cross-town rivals Red Star Belgrade to 19 points at one point.

The German's finest hour with the club, however, came in August 2003 when Partizan eliminated Newcastle United in the Champions League third qualifying round to reach the 2003–04 competition's group stage.[40] Following the first leg 0–1 loss at home, Partizan improbably triumphed 0–1 away at St. James' Park against the third-placed English Premier League club, taking the tie to extra-time and eventually penalties. The penalty series brought further dramatic changes of momentum before right back Milivoje Ćirković's successful spot-kick in the seventh penalty round finally put Partizan through. Matthäus notably had his back turned to the pitch as couldn't bear to watch the drama of Ćirković's penalty. Drawn in a tough group with Real Madrid, eventual champions FC Porto, and Olympique de Marseille, Partizan finished last thus missing out on the UEFA Cup spot.

On 13 December 2003, right after finishing the final league match of the first half of the season before the winter break (0–1 win away at FK Železnik), Matthäus abruptly resigned his Partizan post by addressing the players and club leadership in private.[41] A club spokesperson said Matthäus would clear everything up at a press conference scheduled for two days later, but it was already widely speculated through reports in the Hungarian press that the German had agreed terms with the Hungarian Football Federation to coach the Hungary national team. The rumours proved true as he officially signed the contract in Budapest and also got introduced to the media at Kempinski Hotel Corvinus.[42]

Four months after leaving Belgrade, in mid-April 2004, the row over the terms of Matthäus' contract with Partizan was opened with both parties publicly going back and forth at each other. It began with Matthäus, by now Hungarian national team head coach, giving a detailed interview to Serbian press and accusing Partizan club leadership of breaching the additional terms of his contract.[43] It became known on that occasion that his initial contract with Partizan that had been finalized on 1 January 2003 included a base guaranteed part as well additional premium clauses giving him between 5–10% from players' transfers and shirt sponsorships as well as Champions League bonus incentives. Matthäus claimed that after none of that was honoured he gave up on asking for his percentages of the Danko Lazović and Zvonimir Vukić transfers as well as Superfund shirt sponsorship deal due to "not wanting to upset the team atmosphere during Champions League qualifying", but instead pushed for the additional terms to be renegotiated. After successful Champions League qualification, the additional terms were in fact renegotiated with Partizan's general secretary Žarko Zečević so that both parties agreed to put the previous additional terms out of effect and instead now give Matthäus 15% of Igor Duljaj's (the club's best young asset at the time) future transfer abroad as well as to allow Matthäus to leave the club any time he wanted without penalties. Duljaj was sold to Shakhtar Donetsk in January 2004 for US$4 million, and Matthäus claimed Partizan failed to pay him the agreed percentage ($600,000 or €469,500). The club responded two days later in a lengthy press release saying that they don't owe him any money.[44] One day after that, Matthäus decided to sue Partizan for the amount of US$600,000 before Sports Arbitration Court in Lausanne, Switzerland.[45]

Hungary national team

[edit]

Matthäus became manager of the Hungary national football team on 14 December 2003.[46] Taking over the national team of a country once synonymous with world class football that had over the decades in the meantime fallen to the point of being unable to qualify for a major competition since the 1986 FIFA World Cup, Matthäus was given the task of qualifying for the 2006 World Cup as part of the Hungarian Football Federation's (MLSZ) ambitious plan of returning on the path of former 1950s glory. After being drawn in a tough group with Sweden, Croatia and Bulgaria that goal looked increasingly difficult.

The campaign started in the autumn of 2004 and fairly quickly it became obvious Hungary were in over their heads. Opening 3–0 loss away at Croatia in early September was somewhat offset four days later by a 3–2 hard fought home win versus Iceland. A month later, Matthäus' Hungary faced another important test away from home, this time at Sweden and once again it finished in disappointment with another demoralizing 3–0 loss. Before the winter break, Hungary managed to beat the minnows of the group Malta thus finishing the autumn part of the qualifying in fourth place with six points, mathematically still within striking distance of the leading trio. Notable was a 2–0 win in a friendly in Kaiserslautern against Germany on 6 June 2004.

As the qualifiers resumed in late March 2005, Hungary hosted Bulgaria in what was pretty much a must win match for Matthäus' squad, however they only managed a draw right at the end with the goal coming in 90th minute for a 1–1 final scoreline. As Croatia and Sweden both won on the same occasion, the leading duo of teams now tangibly separated themselves from the pack of chasers, all of which meant that in order to qualify Hungary would have to win all its remaining fixtures and even get some outside help in terms of favourable results elsewhere. Such improbable scenario failed to materialize and they ended up in fourth place with 14 points from 10 matches, well behind Croatia and Sweden who earned 25 and 24 points, respectively. However, Matthäus was allowed to finish out the campaign behind the bench, and was even offered Hungarian citizenship, which he at the time said he would accept. There's no word whether he actually did. Matthäus left the Hungarian national team on 11 January 2006.[47]

After leaving the Hungary post, Matthäus was vocally critical of the Hungarian Football Federation (MLSZ), accusing it in November 2007 of "not contributing, but exploiting Hungarian football" before adding that "it is not coincidental that the Hungarian bid to host Euro 2012 didn't receive any votes".[48]

Athletico Paranaense

[edit]

Matthäus signed a one-year contract to coach Brazilian club Athletico Paranaense from the city of Curitiba on 11 January 2006.[47] However, after only seven matches in charge (five wins, two draws) from the start of the 2006 Paraná state championship he quit the club in March 2006 citing the need to be closer to his family. The way he left raised some questions about his professionalism. Apparently, only five weeks after signing a contract he informed club officials about a need to rush back to Europe in order to deal with an urgent personal problem, but assured them he'd be back in 3–4 days. After missing for two weeks, he faxed in his resignation on 20 March and never even went back to Brazil to pick up his personal belongings.[49] Some ten days later, Atlético put out a release mentioning that Matthäus ran up R$13,000 (US$5,915) in phone charges that the club wanted him to pay.[50][51] The club even posted the bill on their website.[52]

Red Bull Salzburg

[edit]

On 19 May 2006, only two months following the bizarre Brazilian episode, Matthäus was announced as coach of Red Bull Salzburg (formerly Austria Salzburg) for the upcoming 2006–07 season. Shortly, the club also signed Giovanni Trapattoni (incidentally Matthäus' former coach at both Inter Milan and Bayern) to be their director of football. In practice, this meant that Trapattoni and Matthäus essentially shared coaching duties.

Despite co-leading the team to the Austrian league title by a large margin, Matthäus would eventually be fired on 12 June 2007 by unanimous decision of the Red Bull Salzburg's board of directors.

Maccabi Netanya

[edit]

On 13 April 2008, it was announced that Matthäus signed with Israeli club Maccabi Netanya to coach the team from the beginning of the 2008–09 season.[53]

On 29 April 2009, with the Israeli league season still ongoing and Netanya sitting in fourth place, it was announced that Matthäus will not be back for the second season once the current one is finished.[54] The reason cited was the financial trouble that the club was going through.[54] Matthäus' club finished the league season in fourth spot.

Bulgaria national team

[edit]
Matthäus (right) during a friendly match against Serbia in November 2010

On 23 September 2010, it was announced that Matthäus would be the new coach of the Bulgarian national team after the resignation of Stanimir Stoilov a few weeks earlier.[55] His contract was for one year with the option for a two-year extension.

He started with a 1–0 win against Wales in Cardiff on his debut.[56] Matthäus led Bulgaria to their first win in 2010 and in the UEFA Euro 2012 qualification campaign. On 12 October 2010, he led Bulgaria to a 2–0 win over Saudi Arabia in a friendly. On 17 November 2010, in a friendly played in Sofia, Bulgaria lost to Serbia 0–1. Despite winning his first match in the qualifiers against Wales, Bulgaria under Matthäus were unable to qualify for Euro 2012, following draws with Switzerland and Montenegro, as well as a home loss against England. On 19 September 2011, it was revealed that Matthäus had been sacked.[57] The match against Switzerland was his final match.[58]

In April 2018, he was one of 77 applicants for the vacant Cameroon national team job.[59]

Columnist and TV pundit

[edit]

From 2001 until 2009, in parallel and in-between his coaching jobs, Matthäus wrote a column for the German weekly sports magazine Sport Bild.

He also worked as in-studio TV pundit on a variety of television networks during big football competitions: for the German pay television channel Premiere during the 2002 and 2006 FIFA World Cups, for the German channel ZDF during UEFA Euro 2004, for Eurosport during UEFA Euro 2008, for the Arabian network Al Jazeera Sports during the 2010 FIFA World Cup, for the Iranian channel IRIB during the 2014 FIFA World Cup and 2015 AFC Asian Cup, and for the British TV network ITV during UEFA Euro 2016.[60] Since the 2012–13 Bundesliga season, he worked as an expert for the Pay TV broadcaster Sky Deutschland.[61]

He has further participated in a special É Campeão for the Brazilian channel SporTV.

Style of play

[edit]

I admire Platini, I admire Maradona, but to win, I need Matthäus.

— Giovanni Trapattoni, Matthäus' manager at Inter Milan and Bayern Munich.[62]

Renowned for his positioning, technical ability, stamina, passing, tackling, and powerful long range shooting abilities with either foot, Matthäus is widely considered by many to be one of the greatest and most complete midfielders of all time, and even by some as one of the greatest players of all time.[63][64][65][66] Primarily a box-to-box midfielder, he was also capable of playing as an attacking or defensive midfielder.[66][67]

Journalist Jacques Thibert, writing for France Football, who awarded Matthäus the 1990 Ballon d'Or, described him as a player that despite not being sublime in anything individually, was good in every aspect of the game, which allowed him to be at ease in every area of the pitch. Furthermore, Thibert credited his Inter manager Giovanni Trapattoni for turning him into a more creative, assertive and rhythmic player.[68] At Inter under Trapattoni, Matthäus excelled in a three-man midfield, either in a free role as a deep-lying playmaker, or even as an offensive left-sided central midfielder in the mezzala role on occasion, with either Gianfranco Matteoli or Sergio Battistini serving as defensive midfielder and Nicola Berti as a box-to-box midfielder.[67][69][70][71][72]

Well into his 30's and coupled with injuries led to then Germany national team manager Berti Vogts's decision to convert Matthäus into a sweeper, a position that he would later play at his final five years in Bayern.[73] As a sweeper, Matthäus enjoyed great freedom, as he could defend and make offensive runs into the opposing team's defensive area, and also exert influence into Bayern's attacking game due to his ability to read the game.[66] Aside from his passing and long range shooting abilities, Matthäus was also an expert free kick and penalty taker, known for his powerful strikes from set pieces.[74][75][76][77] In addition to his footballing skills, Matthäus was also praised for his winning mentality, determination, leadership, and commanding presence on the pitch, which made him a decisive player for his teams.[67]

Personal life

[edit]

Matthäus has four children,[78] and has been married five times. During his first marriage (1981–1992), he had two daughters with wife Silvia.

In 1994, he married Swiss model and TV presenter Lolita Morena with whom he had a son. The marriage ended in 1999.

While coaching Partizan in Belgrade, Matthäus met 31-year-old Serbian socialite Marijana Čolić who became his third wife on 27 November 2003. By late 2007, the couple separated and she filed for divorce, which became official in late January 2009 following a year-long court case in Salzburg, Austria (their last residence) over the division of assets.[79]

In December 2008, 47-year-old Matthäus married 21-year-old Ukrainian model Kristina Liliana Chudinova. The ceremony was held in Las Vegas. They met a year earlier at the Oktoberfest beer festival in Munich. The couple lived in Tel Aviv, Israel, where Liliana studied journalism in a local university;[80] but started living separately by early 2010.[81]

Matthäus married Anastasia Klimko in 2014 and they have a son. The marriage ended in 2021.[82]

In 2023, Matthäus became a co-owner of the Ghanaian football team Accra Lions.[83][84]

Media appearances

[edit]

Matthäus features in EA Sports' FIFA video game series; he was on the cover of the German edition of FIFA 2001,[85] and features in the FIFA 14, FIFA 15, FIFA 16, FIFA 17, FIFA 18, FIFA 19 and FIFA 20 as an Ultimate Team Icon.[86] Matthäus was also prominently featured in the opening video scene of EA's Euro 2000 video game, with Paul Oakenfold transforming the real Matthäus into an interactive digital player he controls in the game with his turntables.[87] In August 2019, Matthäus became the face of turn-based football management game Football, Tactics & Glory; he does not actually appear in the game itself.[88]

Matthäus had a guest role together with Joanna Tuczyńska in the television series Alarm für Cobra 11 – Die Autobahnpolizei, in which he played himself in March 2012.[89] In June 2012, VOX broadcast a documentary titled "Lothar – immer am Ball".[90]

Career statistics

[edit]

Club

[edit]
Appearances and goals by club, season and competition[91]
Club Season League National cup[a] League cup[b] Continental[c] Total
Division Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals
Borussia Mönchengladbach 1979–80 Bundesliga 28 4 2 0 – 11 2 41 6
1980–81 Bundesliga 33 10 5 2 — — 38 12
1981–82 Bundesliga 33 3 5 4 — 4 1 42 8
1982–83 Bundesliga 34 8 5 2 — — 39 10
1983–84 Bundesliga 34 11 6 4 — — 40 15
Total 162 36 23 12 — 15 3 200 51
Bayern Munich 1984–85 Bundesliga 33 16 6 0 — 5 1 44 17
1985–86 Bundesliga 23 10 5 2 — 3 0 31 12
1986–87 Bundesliga 31 14 3 1 — 7 4 41 19
1987–88 Bundesliga 26 17 4 3 — 4 1 34 21
Total 113 57 18 6 — 19 6 150 69
Inter Milan 1988–89 Serie A 32 9 7 3 — 5 0 44 12
1989–90 Serie A 25 11 2 2 0 0 2 0 29 13
1990–91 Serie A 31 16 3 1 — 12 6 46 23
1991–92 Serie A 27 4 5 1 — 2 0 34 5
Total 115 40 17 7 0 0 21 6 153 53
Bayern Munich 1992–93 Bundesliga 28 8 0 0 — — 28 8
1993–94 Bundesliga 33 8 3 1 — 4 1 40 10
1994–95 Bundesliga 16 5 2 0 — 6 0 24 5
1995–96 Bundesliga 19 1 0 0 — 7 0 26 1
1996–97 Bundesliga 28 1 3 0 — 2 0 33 1
1997–98 Bundesliga 25 3 3 0 2 0 5 0 35 3
1998–99 Bundesliga 25 1 5 0 2 0 12 1 44 2
1999–2000 Bundesliga 15 1 2 0 0 0 9 0 26 1
Total 189 28 18 1 4 0 45 2 256 31
MetroStars 2000 Major League Soccer 16 0 2 0 5 0 — 23 0
Career total 595 161 78 26 9 0 100 17 782 204
  1. ^ Includes DFB-Pokal, Coppa Italia, Open Cup
  2. ^ Includes DFL-Supercup, DFB Ligapokal, Supercoppa Italiana, MLS Cup
  3. ^ Includes European Cup/UEFA Champions League, UEFA Cup Winners' Cup, UEFA Cup

International

[edit]
Appearances and goals by national team and year[92]
National team Year Apps Goals
Germany 1980 1 0
1981 1 0
1982 10 0
1983 7 0
1984 10 0
1985 7 1
1986 15 2
1987 6 1
1988 10 4
1989 3 1
1990 15 7
1991 7 3
1992 4 0
1993 11 0
1994 15 3
1995 0 0
1996 0 0
1997 0 0
1998 8 0
1999 13 1
2000 7 0
Total 150 23
Scores and results list West Germany's and Germany's goal tally first, score column indicates score after each Matthäus goal[92]
List of international goals scored by Lothar Matthäus
No. Date Venue Opponent Score Result Competition
1 30 April 1985 Stadion Evžena Rošického, Prague, Czech Republic  Czechoslovakia 3–0 5–1 1986 FIFA World Cup qualification
2 5 February 1986 Stadio Partenio-Adriano Lombardi, Avellino, Italy  Italy 2–1 2–1 Friendly
3 17 June 1986 Estadio Universitario, Monterrey, Mexico  Morocco 1–0 1–0 1986 FIFA World Cup
4 25 March 1987 Ramat Gan Stadium, Ramat Gan, Israel  Israel 2–0 2–0 Friendly
5 2 April 1988 Olympiastadion, West Berlin, West Germany  Argentina 1–0 1–0 Four Nations Tournament (1988)
6 4 June 1988 Weserstadion, Bremen, West Germany  Yugoslavia 1–1 1–1 Friendly
7 21 June 1988 Volksparkstadion, Hamburg, West Germany  Netherlands 1–0 1–2 UEFA Euro 1988
8 31 August 1988 Helsinki Olympic Stadium, Helsinki, Finland  Finland 3–0 4–0 1990 FIFA World Cup qualification
9 4 October 1989 Westfalenstadion, Dortmund, West Germany  Finland 6–1 6–1 1990 FIFA World Cup qualification
10 25 April 1990 Neckarstadion, Stuttgart, West Germany  Uruguay 1–1 3–3 Friendly
11 10 June 1990 San Siro, Milan, Italy  Yugoslavia 1–0 4–1 1990 FIFA World Cup
12 3–1
13 15 June 1990 San Siro, Milan, Italy  United Arab Emirates 3–1 5–1 1990 FIFA World Cup
14 1 July 1990 San Siro, Milan, Italy  Czechoslovakia 1–0 1–0 1990 FIFA World Cup
15 29 August 1990 Estádio da Luz (1954), Lisbon, Portugal  Portugal 1–0 1–1 Friendly
16 19 December 1990 Neckarstadion, Stuttgart, Germany   Switzerland 4–0 4–0 Friendly
17 27 March 1991 Waldstadion (Frankfurt), Frankfurt, Germany  Soviet Union 2–0 2–1 Friendly
18 1 May 1991 Niedersachsenstadion, Hanover, Germany  Belgium 1–0 1–0 UEFA Euro 1992 qualifying
19 18 December 1991 Ulrich Haberland Stadion, Leverkusen, Germany  Luxembourg 1–0 4–0 UEFA Euro 1992 qualifying
20 10 July 1994 Giants Stadium, East Rutherford, United States  Bulgaria 1–0 1–2 1994 FIFA World Cup
21 14 December 1994 Stadionul Republican, Chişinău, Moldova  Moldova 3–0 3–0 UEFA Euro 1996 qualifying
22 18 December 1994 Fritz-Walter-Stadion, Kaiserslautern, Germany  Albania 2–0 2–1 UEFA Euro 1996 qualifying
23 28 July 1999 Estadio Jalisco, Guadalajara, Mexico  New Zealand 2–0 2–0 1999 FIFA Confederations Cup

Managerial statistics

[edit]
As of 19 September 2011
Team From To Record Ref.
M W D L Win %
Rapid Wien 6 September 2001 14 May 2002 32 9 9 14 028.13 [35][36][37]
Partizan 22 December 2002 14 December 2003 44 29 6 9 065.91 [39][41][40][93][94]
Hungary 14 December 2003 11 January 2006 28 11 3 14 039.29 [46][47][95][96]
Atlético Paranaense 11 January 2006 20 March 2006 8 6 2 0 075.00 [47][49]
Maccabi Netanya 13 June 2008 29 April 2009 32 14 12 6 043.75 [97][98]
Bulgaria 23 September 2010 19 September 2011 10 3 3 4 030.00 [55][56][57][58]
Total 154 72 35 47 046.75

Honours

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The number 10 Inter Milan jersey of Matthäus in the San Siro museum

Player

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Bayern Munich[99][100]

Inter Milan[99][100]

MetroStars[99]

Germany

Individual

Manager

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Partizan

Red Bull Salzburg

See also

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References

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Lothar Matthäus

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#Lothar Matthäus Lothar Matthäus (born 21 March 1961) is a German former professional footballer who played as a versatile and defender, renowned for his and longevity in the sport. He captained to victory in the and participated in five World Cup tournaments from 1982 to 1998, appearing in 25 matches overall. With 150 international caps and 23 goals for and unified , Matthäus also contributed to the nation's win in 1980. Matthäus began his professional career at in 1979, where he made 162 Bundesliga appearances before transferring to Bayern Munich in 1984. At Bayern, he won seven titles (1985, 1986, 1987, 1994, 1997, 1999, 2000) and two DFB-Pokals, forming part of a dominant era that included a Cup triumph in 1996. His stint at from 1988 to 1992 yielded a title in 1989 and a Cup in 1991, marking him as one of the few players to succeed at the highest levels in both and . Later, he briefly played for the New York/New Jersey MetroStars in before retiring in 2000 at age 39. Individually, Matthäus earned the as European Footballer of the Year in 1990 and was the inaugural winner of the World Player of the Year award in 1991. He was named German Footballer of the Year twice, in 1990 and 1999. After retirement, Matthäus pursued a managerial career, winning the with in 2003 and serving as an assistant at in 2007, while also coaching national teams in and . Today, he works as a television pundit and football ambassador, receiving the DFL Honorary Award in 2019 for his contributions to German football.

Early years

Childhood and family

Lothar Herbert Matthäus was born on 21 March 1961 in , , , into a working-class family shaped by the post-war recovery era. His father worked as a janitor at the local headquarters of the sportswear company Puma in nearby , a job that provided stability amid the economic rebuilding of 1960s . His mother managed the household and exemplified diligence through her daily routines, including preparing for her son's early sports endeavors by ironing his jerseys. The couple raised their sons in a modest environment, reflecting the broader socio-economic context of modest wages and community-focused living in rural , where families like the Matthäuses prioritized thrift and hard work without luxuries such as frequent new toys or specialized equipment. Matthäus grew up alongside his older brother in a five-family house on Würzburger Straße 11 in , adjacent to the Puma grounds, where the family paid a rent of 80 Deutsche Marks per month. The brothers shared household responsibilities from a young age, which instilled a strong sense of discipline and resilience in Matthäus. He attended local schools in the area, balancing education with outdoor play in the building's courtyard, a space featuring a sandbox and pole that served as makeshift goals. This upbringing, marked by parental emphasis on perseverance—exemplified by his father's routine of opening and locking Puma's gates daily—fostered Matthäus's early , as he later recalled his mother's role as a "fighter and role model." From childhood, Matthäus displayed a keen interest in sports, particularly football, which became his primary outlet after completing ; he often practiced alone against a wall or joined street games with neighborhood friends until dusk. The family's proximity to Puma indirectly supported these pursuits by immersing him in a sports-oriented community, though his initial experiences involved no formal coaching or structured training, relying instead on self-motivated play in informal settings. This foundation of unstructured athletic exploration, combined with the disciplined family dynamic, laid the groundwork for his later development, eventually leading him to join the local youth team at age 9.

Youth football development

Lothar Matthäus began his organized youth football career at the age of nine with the local club in , where he joined the youth teams in 1970. There, he demonstrated early talent as a versatile outfield player, consistently scoring goals and playing across multiple age groups due to the less structured nature of youth football at the time. From 1971 to 1975, Matthäus emerged as a top scorer in every youth team he featured for at , honing his skills as a dynamic with notable stamina that allowed him to cover the pitch relentlessly. Under the guidance of local youth coaches, he began displaying leadership qualities, often taking on responsibilities beyond his years and contributing to team success through his battling spirit and precise passing. In 1976, Matthäus transitioned to more competitive youth environments within Bavarian football, continuing his development at Herzogenaurach until 1979 while balancing growth in physical attributes, including reaching his adult height of 1.77 meters. During this time, he also completed an apprenticeship as an interior decorator while playing for the club's senior amateur team. By age 17 in 1978, he debuted for the club's senior amateur team, where his performances—scoring 20 goals in 22 appearances—highlighted his readiness for higher levels despite initial challenges in adapting to increased physical demands and tactical intensity. These standout displays earned him attention from professional scouts, culminating in his signing of the first professional contract with Borussia Mönchengladbach in 1979 at age 18, marking his progression from amateur ranks to the Bundesliga's reserve and youth setup before a rapid first-team breakthrough.

Club career

Borussia Mönchengladbach (1979–1984)

Matthäus joined Borussia Mönchengladbach in 1979 at age 18, making his Bundesliga debut on September 22, 1979, in a 4–2 home win over 1. FC Kaiserslautern, where he played as a defensive midfielder under coach Jupp Heynckes, who had scouted him from his youth club 1. FC Herzogenaurach. In his debut season, he featured in 41 matches across all competitions, scoring six goals, including one in the first leg of the 1979–80 UEFA Cup final against Eintracht Frankfurt, though Gladbach lost the tie on away goals and finished seventh in the Bundesliga. Under Heynckes's guidance, Matthäus developed into a versatile and tenacious , known for his aggressive tackling that earned him the nickname "Der Panzer" (The Tank) for his relentless, machine-like defensive prowess. By the 1983–84 season, he had become a key leader, appearing in 34 matches and scoring 11 goals to help Gladbach secure third place in the league and reach the final, where they fell to Bayern Munich on penalties. His rapid rise at Gladbach, where he made 162 Bundesliga appearances and scored 36 goals overall from 1979 to 1984, led to an early international call-up for in 1980. In summer 1984, following the Pokal final, Matthäus transferred to Bayern for a then-record DM 2.5 million fee for a German player, marking the end of his formative years at the club.

First stint at Bayern Munich (1984–1988)

Matthäus transferred to Bayern Munich from in the summer of 1984 for a then-record fee of 2.5 million Deutsche Marks, marking a significant investment in the 23-year-old who had already established himself as a key player for the West German national team. Under coach , he quickly integrated into the squad, making his debut in the 1984–85 season and contributing to Bayern's first league title in four years with 33 appearances and 16 goals. His arrival bolstered Bayern's midfield dominance, helping the team secure three consecutive championships in 1985, 1986, and 1987, during which Matthäus scored 40 goals in 87 league matches. In addition to the league successes, Matthäus played a central role in Bayern's 1986 DFB-Pokal triumph, starting in the 5–2 final victory over and providing in the domestic cup run. Lattek, who managed Bayern from 1983 to 1987, praised Matthäus for his versatility and work ethic, positioning him as a box-to-box capable of covering the entire pitch, breaking up play, and contributing offensively with long-range shots and penalties. This evolution from a more defensive role at to a complete all-action presence made him indispensable, as he assumed informal responsibilities in the dressing room, motivating teammates amid intense title challenges. The 1986–87 season exemplified Matthäus's growing influence, with 41 appearances across all competitions and 19 goals, including notable strikes in the European Cup. He was instrumental in Bayern's campaign to the European Cup final, scoring twice (both penalties) in the 4–1 first-leg semi-final victory over Real Madrid and helping secure the title with 14 league goals. Although Bayern fell 2–1 to in the final in , Matthäus's performances underscored his emergence as one of Europe's premier midfielders. His standout showings at the , where he captained to the final, further elevated his confidence and impact upon returning to club duties.

Inter Milan (1988–1992)

In 1988, Lothar Matthäus transferred from Bayern Munich to for a then-record fee of 14 billion Italian lire, joining fellow German international in a bid to revitalize the Nerazzurri under manager . He made his debut shortly after arriving and quickly became a pivotal figure in midfield, blending his dynamic box-to-box style with the disciplined demands of Italian football. Matthäus's influence was immediate, as he contributed key goals and assists during Inter's dominant 1988–89 campaign, which ended with the —the club's 13th league title—clinched with a record 58 points and only 19 goals conceded. On November 9, 1989, while playing for Inter Milan in Italy, Matthäus witnessed the fall of the Berlin Wall on television. He later described the event as an emotional and historic moment for Germany, expressing joy and pride in the reunification. Matthäus has stated in interviews that it was one of the most beautiful days in German history, although he could not be present in person due to his club commitments. The following seasons brought further European success, highlighted by Inter's 1990–91 UEFA Cup triumph. Matthäus played a starring role in the two-legged final against Roma, scoring a decisive penalty in the 55th minute of the first leg at to secure a 2–0 victory, helping Inter advance 2–1 on aggregate despite a narrow loss in the return fixture. His leadership and scoring prowess, including several crucial strikes throughout the tournament, underscored his adaptation to a more defensive-oriented system, where he occasionally filled the libero role amid injuries to Inter's backline. This period also saw Matthäus reach the pinnacle of individual recognition, winning the as Europe's top player, an award enhanced by his captaincy in West Germany's victory that summer. Despite these highs, Matthäus encountered difficulties adjusting to Serie A's tactical rigor and the relentless scrutiny from Milan's passionate media, which amplified pressures during less successful stretches like the 1991–92 season under new coach Corrado Orrico. Over his four years at the club, he amassed 116 appearances and 26 goals across all competitions, establishing himself as a transformative presence before departing back to Bayern Munich in 1992.

Second stint at Bayern Munich (1992–2000)

Matthäus rejoined Bayern Munich from in the summer of 1992 for a transfer fee of €2 million, returning to the club where he had first established himself as a star earlier in his career. As a 31-year-old veteran, he quickly reasserted his influence in the midfield, providing leadership and experience to a squad aiming to reclaim dominance in the . During this eight-year second stint, Matthäus contributed to significant domestic success, helping Bayern secure four titles in the 1993–94, 1996–97, 1998–99, and 1999–2000 seasons. He also lifted two DFB-Pokals in 1998 and 2000, along with the 1996 , where Bayern defeated Rapid Wien 2–0 in the final at the King Baudouin Stadium in . These triumphs underscored his role as a stabilizing force during a period of transition for the club. In his later years at Bayern, Matthäus served as , guiding the through challenging campaigns despite advancing age—he turned 39 just before the 1999–2000 season concluded. His tactical acumen and work rate remained vital, even as younger talents emerged around him. Over his two spells with Bayern, Matthäus amassed 410 appearances across all competitions, scoring 100 goals, figures that highlighted his enduring impact and longevity at the highest level. He played a key role in fostering the development of emerging players, including goalkeeper , who debuted during this period and went on to become a club icon under Matthäus's veteran guidance. This mentorship aspect of his game emphasized his transition from dynamic to elder statesman. Matthäus scored his final Bundesliga goal during the 1999–2000 season, capping a remarkable career in German football with a strike that symbolized his continued threat from distance. His departure from Bayern came at the end of that title-winning campaign, driven by stalled contract extension talks with the club hierarchy, leading him to seek new opportunities abroad. This move overlapped briefly with the tail end of his international career, as he retired from the German national team in June 2000 after Euro 2000, closing a chapter that included 150 caps.

Final playing years (2000–2001)

At the age of 39, Lothar Matthäus signed with the New York/New Jersey MetroStars of in early 2000, joining the league on a one-year contract reportedly worth approximately $1 million, including salary and incentives. His debut came in March 2000, marking a bold move to continue his career abroad after two decades in European football. Matthäus appeared in 16 regular-season matches and 5 playoff games for the MetroStars, totaling 21 appearances, during which he recorded no goals but contributed 3 assists. Matthäus faced significant challenges adapting to MLS, including a persistent back injury that hampered his fitness and limited his involvement, as well as the demanding travel schedule across the . Critics noted his occasionally lackadaisical play and questioned his commitment, particularly after reports surfaced of him vacationing in St. Tropez rather than focusing on rehabilitation during a key period. Despite these hurdles and the perceived lower competitive level compared to , he helped the MetroStars secure the title with a 17-12-3 record, though the team fell in the conference semifinals to the Chicago Fire. Matthäus retired from professional football in October 2000 at the conclusion of the MLS season, formally ending his on January 1, 2001. Over his club career spanning , Bayern Munich, , and the MetroStars, he amassed 785 appearances and 204 goals. Reflecting on his time in MLS years later, Matthäus expressed no regrets about concluding his career abroad, highlighting the mutual learning with young American players and his contribution to the league's early development despite limited resources. This stint abroad paved the way for his immediate transition into coaching.

International career

Early international years (1980–1985)

Lothar Matthäus earned his first call-up to the West German national team at the age of 19 for the 1980 , where he made his debut as a substitute in the 73rd minute of the 3–2 group stage win over the on 14 June 1980 in . He appeared in two matches during the tournament, also substituting in the 1–0 victory against , contributing to West Germany's successful title defense with a 2–1 final win over on 21 June. His impressive form at during the 1979–80 season had been instrumental in securing his place in the squad. Matthäus solidified his position in the national team setup under coach Jupp Derwall, who guided to the in . He featured in all seven matches of the tournament, starting each game in midfield and helping the team navigate a challenging path to the final, where they fell 3–1 to on 11 . Although he did not score, Matthäus provided defensive stability and energy in the , notably during the controversial 1–0 group stage win over on 25 June that eliminated and advanced both and at the expense of the North Africans—a match later dubbed the "Disgrace of Gijón." By the 1984 UEFA European Championship in France, Matthäus had emerged as a central figure in Derwall's midfield, playing all five matches as West Germany reached the final but lost 2–0 after extra time to hosts on 27 June. His versatile performances, combining tenacity in tackling with forward surges, were pivotal in the group's progression, including a 2–1 win over where he helped set the tempo for Rudi Völler's brace, and a penalty shoot-out victory over in the semi-finals. Through these early years, Matthäus accumulated 36 caps for by the end of 1985, scoring four goals—all in qualifying matches and friendlies that year—including his international debut goal in a 5–1 World Cup qualifier win over on 30 April. His reliability in midfield anchored the team's qualifying efforts for the 1986 , where he featured prominently in victories such as the 3–0 away win over and a 2–1 triumph against .

Rise and 1990 World Cup (1986–1990)

Matthäus solidified his leadership role with the national team in 1986, when he was named permanent captain following Karl-Heinz Rummenigge's injury-plagued period and the end of Franz Beckenbauer's playing era. This appointment marked his emergence as a central figure in the team's midfield, combining defensive solidity with forward surges that defined his international rise. At the in , Matthäus captained through all seven matches, scoring one —a long-range strike in a 1-0 group-stage victory over —and helping the side advance to the final, where they fell 3-2 to despite his efforts to neutralize . Two years later, as captain at hosted in , he led the team to the semi-finals, contributing one —a second-half penalty in a 2-1 loss to the eventual champions, the —while showcasing his versatility in midfield control. Matthäus's strong performances at from 1988 onward, where he adapted seamlessly to Italian football and contributed to the club's successes, further bolstered his international stature. This club form carried into the in , where, as captain, he guided to the title across seven matches, scoring four goals—including two in a 4-1 group stage win over —and earning the tournament's Silver Ball for his commanding displays. In the final against , secured a 1-0 victory via Andreas Brehme's penalty, with Matthäus's leadership pivotal in containing Maradona and orchestrating the midfield. The 1990 triumph confirmed Matthäus's status as a global star, culminating in his award from for the year's outstanding performances. Over the 1986–1990 period, he amassed 70 appearances for , netting 20 goals in competitive and friendly fixtures alike.

Captaincy and final years (1991–2000)

Following the triumph at the 1990 World Cup, Lothar Matthäus retained the captaincy of the national team, leading the side through a transitional period marked by reunification and evolving squad dynamics. Although sidelined by a knee ligament injury sustained in 1991, Matthäus missed , where advanced to the final but suffered a 2–0 defeat to . The tournament's disappointing outcome drew criticism toward the aging core of the team, including questions about Matthäus's leadership despite his absence; he staunchly defended his role, emphasizing his commitment during recovery and attributing the result to tactical shortcomings rather than individual failings. Matthäus returned for the in the United States, captaining to the quarterfinals, where they fell 2–1 to after Matthäus had opened the scoring with a header in the 47th minute. Four years later, at the in , he guided the team to the round of 16 before a 2–0 loss to ended their campaign. These appearances marked Matthäus's record fifth World Cup tournament as an outfield player—the only such feat in history—underscoring his extraordinary longevity at age 37. In his final international phase, Matthäus featured in at age 39, earning his last three caps during Germany's group-stage exit, with his 150th appearance coming in a 3–0 defeat to on June 20, 2000. Over his 20-year international career, he amassed 150 caps and 23 goals for and unified , a national record at the time. As younger talents emerged, Matthäus reflected on the handover to a new generation, including figures like who had shared leadership duties earlier, viewing his extended tenure as a testament to adaptability and resilience amid physical demands. While balancing national commitments with his club role at Bayern , he prioritized team evolution over personal accolades in his later years.

Playing attributes

Style of play

Lothar Matthäus epitomized versatility on the pitch, seamlessly operating as a box-to-box capable of transitioning into a libero role, particularly later in his career after adapting to tactical demands and injuries. His ability to dictate play from deep positions combined defensive acumen with forward surges, making him a pivotal figure in both club and international setups. This fluidity allowed him to cover the entire field with relentless energy, showcasing exceptional stamina that enabled sustained high-intensity performances throughout matches. Technically, Matthäus was a complete player, renowned for his long-range and free-kick precision, often delivering powerful strikes from distance with either foot. Defensively, he demonstrated solidity through effective tackles and interceptions, exemplified by his man-marking of in the 1990 World Cup final, while offensively, his perceptive passing and vision led to numerous assists and goals from midfield. These attributes underscored his tactical intelligence, gliding past opponents and controlling the game's tempo with a wide range of passes. Matthäus's and were integral to his style, providing composure under pressure and inspiring teammates as . Over his career, he adapted from primarily attacking roles in his youth to more defensive responsibilities, maintaining elite performance into his late 30s through discipline and athleticism. His hybrid qualities draw comparisons to modern versatile midfielders like , whom Matthäus himself has praised as the world's best in the holding role. Pelé recognized this completeness by including him in the list of greatest living players in 2004.

Legacy and influence

Lothar Matthäus holds the distinction of being the only outfield player to participate in five World Cups, appearing in the tournaments of 1982, 1986, 1990, 1994, and 1998. He also remains Germany's most-capped player with 150 international appearances, a record that underscores his unparalleled longevity and reliability for the national team. Matthäus's versatility as a , seamlessly shifting between defensive and attacking roles while maintaining exceptional stamina, inspired a generation of players who emulated his all-around capabilities in modern football. As captain of during the , Matthäus symbolized the nation's footballing efficiency, embodying dynamic physicality, tactical discipline, and an unyielding competitive drive that led to victory against in the final. His leadership in that triumph cemented his status as a national icon, and he was inducted into the German Football Hall of Fame as part of its inaugural class in recognition of his contributions to the sport. Matthäus's career has influenced philosophies, particularly through his advocacy for rigorous fitness training and physical preparation, drawing from his own renowned endurance that allowed him to dominate matches across multiple positions. In his post-playing roles, he has served as a global ambassador for the , promoting the league's values of professionalism and development on international platforms.

Managerial career

Early coaching roles (2001–2006)

Following his retirement from playing in 2001, Lothar Matthäus transitioned into coaching, beginning with roles that tested his ability to adapt to diverse football cultures and club dynamics in and beyond. His early managerial positions were marked by mixed results, often complicated by barriers, tactical mismatches with local styles, and internal conflicts, as he sought to implement a disciplined, high-pressing approach influenced by his experiences as a playing captain. These stints highlighted the challenges of moving from a legendary player to a in unfamiliar environments. Matthäus's first head coaching role came at in , where he was appointed on 6 September 2001 after serving briefly as sports director. Overseeing 32 matches in the during the 2001–02 season, he achieved a points-per-match average of 1.13, guiding the team to an eighth-place finish—the club's lowest league position in its 103-year history. This mid-table outcome reflected adaptation struggles, including integrating his structured defensive tactics into a squad accustomed to more fluid Austrian play, though he secured notable European successes like a 5-2 aggregate win over in the first round. Despite these efforts, fan and board dissatisfaction with the results led to his dismissal on 10 May 2002. In December 2002, Matthäus moved to in , signing a contract on 22 December to replace Ljubiša Tumbaković and inheriting a team at the top of the First League table. Managing 10 league games with a points-per-match rate of 0.80, he successfully steered Partizan to the 2002–03 championship title, their first since 1997, by maintaining their lead through the season's remainder. However, his tenure was short-lived due to escalating conflicts with club management over transfer policies and training methods, culminating in his on 13 December 2003 to pursue a national team opportunity; these disputes underscored the cultural and administrative hurdles he faced in the post-Yugoslav football landscape. Matthäus then took charge of the Hungary national team on 1 January 2004, committing to a two-year contract aimed at revitalizing a side absent from major tournaments since 1986. Across 28 matches, he recorded a points-per-match average of 1.29, with a focus on integrating young talents like Balázs Szentesi into a more organized setup drawing from his own midfield leadership days. Despite early promise, including a 2–0 friendly win over , Hungary faltered in qualifying Group 8, finishing fourth with only 13 points from 10 games, marked by key losses such as 2–0 to and 1–0 to ; this failure to advance highlighted persistent issues with squad depth and tactical adaptation to Eastern European rivals, leading to the postponing and ultimately declining contract extension decisions by late 2005, ending his tenure on 31 December. Seeking opportunities outside , Matthäus signed a one-year deal with Brazilian club Atlético Paranaense on 11 January 2006, arriving in to blend German discipline with local flair. In his brief 45-day stint from 1 February to 17 March, he oversaw eight matches, securing six wins—including a 3–1 victory over Moto Club—before resigning amid homesickness and family pressures, having relocated without his wife and children who remained in . The abrupt departure, after just three league games, exposed significant cultural adjustment challenges, such as navigating Brazil's relaxed training culture and high expectations in the Campeonato Paranaense, though his short impact left the club in strong form.

Mid-career positions (2006–2009)

In 2006, Lothar Matthäus joined Red Bull Salzburg as coach, working alongside , and contributed to the team's success in securing the Austrian title for the 2006–07 season—the club's under its new ownership. Over the course of approximately 45 matches during his tenure, Matthäus helped instill a blend of German tactical discipline and attacking flair, drawing from his own playing experience to emphasize structured play and forward momentum. This period marked his first major silverware as a manager, highlighting his ability to integrate high professional standards into the squad. Matthäus placed a strong emphasis on player development at , promoting young talents and fostering a pathway for emerging players within the club's burgeoning youth system, which aligned with Red Bull's long-term vision. However, his time there ended abruptly in June 2007 when he was sacked following irreconcilable differences in footballing philosophy with the director of football, amid board-level tensions. Matthäus accepted the decision, stating it was in the best interest of the team to resolve the conflicts. After a brief hiatus, Matthäus took charge of Maccabi Netanya in in August 2008 on a two-year , aiming to build on the club's recent runner-up finish and challenge for the Ligat ha'Al title. In his 33 matches at the helm, he guided the team to an early lead in the standings during the 2008–09 season, implementing a disciplined yet proactive approach that improved their competitive edge initially and positioned them as contenders for European qualification. Despite finishing fourth overall, which secured a Cup spot, Matthäus resigned in 2009 after requesting release from his due to the club's worsening financial situation and budget constraints. This stint showcased his tactical evolution, combining rigorous organization with offensive intent to elevate the team's performance amid limited resources.

National team management (2010–2011)

In September 2010, Lothar Matthäus was appointed of the national team by the (BFU), marking his return to international management after previous roles with and various clubs. His primary objective was to steer the team through Group G, which included strong opponents like and , amid a challenging start under his predecessor that saw early losses to and . Matthäus emphasized defensive solidity to address 's vulnerabilities, implementing a compact 4-4-2 formation that prioritized organization and counter-attacks, while relying on local talents such as midfielders and Stanislav Ivanov to provide creativity and energy. During his tenure, which spanned from 23 September 2010 to 19 September 2011, Matthäus oversaw nine competitive and friendly matches, achieving a points-per-match average of 1.22 with three wins, two draws, and four losses. Key successes included a 1-0 away victory over on 8 October 2010 in qualifying, secured by a goal from , and friendly triumphs such as 2-0 against on 12 October 2010 and 1-0 over on 29 March 2011, demonstrating improved defensive resilience with clean sheets in these games. However, the campaign faltered in crucial qualifiers, with notable draws against (0-0 at home on 26 March 2011) and (1-1 away on 4 June 2011), followed by heavy defeats including 0-3 to at home on 2 September 2011 and 1-3 to away on 6 September 2011, leaving Bulgaria with just five points from the seven group matches played under his leadership and eliminating any chance of qualification. Matthäus's dismissal came shortly after the final qualifier, announced by BFU president Borislav Mihailov on 19 2011, citing not only the poor results but also mounting tensions, including media pressure, player discipline issues, and a reported incident ahead of a 0-1 friendly loss to on 10 August 2011. He publicly critiqued the squad's limited depth, pointing to an aging roster lacking the star power of retired forward —whom he unsuccessfully tried to recall—and insufficient support from the federation in terms of resources and youth integration. This short stint, lasting less than a year, contrasted sharply with Matthäus's illustrious playing career as West Germany's captain, where he led the team to the title; it is often regarded as a low point in his managerial journey, highlighting the challenges of rebuilding a mid-tier national side without adequate infrastructure.

Recent involvement (2022–present)

After more than a decade without head coaching responsibilities since leaving the national team in 2011, Lothar Matthäus returned to hands-on football involvement in a low-profile capacity, motivated by a desire to contribute to the sport's development and mentor the next generation. This shift reflected his interest in giving back to football communities, drawing on his extensive experience without pursuing high-stakes managerial roles. Matthäus has continued his longstanding role as a club representative for Bayern since July 2017, where he offers non-coaching advisory input on club strategy and fulfills ambassadorial duties, such as promoting the team's legacy and engaging with fans. In this capacity, he has provided insights on transfer policies and team performance during the 2022–2025 period, emphasizing stability and youth integration to sustain Bayern's competitive edge. From September 2022 to August 2024, Matthäus served as a coach at TSV Grünwald, a club in the suburbs, leading the E-Jugend (under-11) team that included his son and prioritizing development through technical training and team-building. His approach focused on fostering and enjoyment in young players, but he stepped down amid frustrations with parental interference, stating that such issues overshadowed the coaching experience and affected the children's progress. In May 2023, Matthäus became a co-owner and board member of club , acquiring a stake alongside business partners to invest in African football talent and support the club's infrastructure for player pathways to . As a technical advisor, he has contributed to and development programs, aiming to nurture raw talent in while bridging opportunities with European clubs, driven by his passion to "give back to the community" after years away from direct involvement. This ongoing commitment underscores his evolving focus on global youth empowerment in football.

Media and public life

Punditry and commentary

After retiring from professional football, Lothar Matthäus transitioned into a prominent role as a television , leveraging his extensive playing experience to provide expert analysis on matches and tactics. Since the season, he has served as a for , where he covers live match commentary, pre- and post-game previews, and critiques of player performances across the and other competitions. His contributions often highlight strategic decisions and individual contributions, drawing on his background as a World Cup-winning captain to offer authoritative insights. Matthäus has also been a regular expert commentator for major international tournaments on public broadcasters ARD and , including the and the 2024 UEFA European Championship. During these events, he is recognized for his candid assessments of team tactics and the German national team's performances, frequently emphasizing the need for discipline and adaptability in high-stakes matches. For instance, his commentary on Germany's campaigns has balanced praise for successful elements with pointed criticism of tactical shortcomings. In addition to broadcast work, Matthäus maintains an active presence as a for outlets like and , producing weekly pieces on contemporary issues such as Bayern Munich transfers and national selections. Over more than three decades in media, his influence stems from a reputation for delivering measured yet forthright opinions, such as urging national coach to reduce experimental lineups in favor of greater stability following key defeats. This approach has solidified his status as a respected voice in German football analysis.

Other media appearances

Matthäus has been prominently featured in the EA Sports FIFA video game series since the late 1990s, with his likeness included as a playable icon in Ultimate Team modes across multiple editions. He appeared on the cover of the German version of FIFA 2001, marking one of his early high-profile endorsements in gaming. Additionally, he took on promotional roles, such as selecting the Bundesliga Team of the Season for FIFA 18 in a collaborative video with EA Sports commentators. In documentaries, Matthäus was the central figure in FC Bayern Munich's 2021 production marking his 60th birthday, which explored his career highlights, versatility, and legacy at the club. He also appeared in the 2025 documentary FC Hollywood – Der FC Bayern und die verrückten 90er, providing exclusive interviews on Bayern's tumultuous yet triumphant 1990s era alongside fellow legends like and . Matthäus made several guest appearances on the popular German entertainment show Wetten, dass..?, including episodes in 1992 alongside his then-wife , 2001 with performers like , and a 2014 segment involving a lighthearted betting stunt. These outings showcased his charismatic off-field persona beyond sports analysis. He authored the Ganz oder gar nicht (All or Nothing) in 2001, reflecting on his , personal challenges, and pursuit of excellence. Matthäus has also contributed to other publications, such as Der Leitwolf (The Alpha Wolf), offering insights into and team dynamics drawn from his experiences. Post-2020, he has appeared as a guest on podcasts, including episodes of the Inter Podcast [ENG] series discussing his playing style and the 1990 World Cup triumph, as well as the RTL+ production 11 Leben – Die Welt von Lothar Matthäus, a multi-episode series delving into his life and career through interviews and archival material.

Personal life

Marriages and family

Lothar Matthäus has been married five times, with each union reflecting different phases of his post-playing life amid his high-profile career in football and media. His first marriage was to Silvia Matthäus, his childhood sweetheart, from 1981 to 1992; the couple had two daughters, (born 1986) and Viola (born 1988), during this period. The divorce came after Matthäus's peak playing years, including the 1990 World Cup victory, and reportedly strained family ties temporarily but did not derail his professional transitions. In 1994, Matthäus married Swiss model and television presenter , a relationship that lasted until 1999; they had one son, (born 1993). This marriage overlapped with his time at and early coaching stints, blending his international career with personal stability in . Following their separation, Matthäus entered his third marriage to Serbian businesswoman Marijana Mijatović (also known as Marijana Kostić) from 2003 to 2009. The union ended amid reported tensions. Matthäus's fourth marriage was brief, to Ukrainian model Liliana Čoudinova (also referred to as Liliana Nova or Kristina Liliana Chudinova) from 2008 to 2010, producing no children and dissolving quickly due to compatibility issues. His fifth and most recent marriage was to Russian model Anastasia Klimko in 2014, lasting until their in 2021; the couple had one son, (born 15 April 2014). In 2025, Matthäus was reported to be in a relationship with 26-year-old German model Theresa Sommer, attending events such as the ceremony together. Matthäus's four children have carved paths influenced by their father's fame, often in media, , and while balancing public exposure with personal privacy. Alisa Matthäus works as a project manager specializing in and sports events, co-founding the non-profit EarthChild e.V. to promote environmental initiatives. Viola Matthäus, residing in , has embraced a media presence through interviews and social events, discussing life as the daughter of a football icon and maintaining a low-key in . Loris Matthäus keeps a more private profile, occasionally appearing in family contexts without a prominent public . Milan, the youngest at age 11 in 2025, is still developing amid his parents' separation, with Matthäus expressing pride in his children's independence despite the challenges of his multiple divorces.

Philanthropy and business interests

Matthäus has engaged in philanthropic efforts primarily through support for and initiatives. In 2018, he backed a soccer camp in Ettal, , organized for up to 35 children with from and other countries, aiming to boost their confidence and well-being through the sport. He has provided a testimonial for the Sepp Blatter Foundation, which funds football and general sports projects globally. In 2023, Matthäus became a co-owner of club Lions, acquiring the largest stake alongside partners Oliver König and , with the investment focused on enhancing football infrastructure and talent development in to "give back to the community." This venture aligns with his broader interest in youth development abroad, drawing on his experience as Germany's most-capped player. Beyond philanthropy, Matthäus has pursued business interests in and endorsements. He is associated with LM Real Estate GmbH, a company registered near in 2023, specializing in the acquisition, sale, holding, and rental of residential properties domestically and internationally. His long-term endorsement deal with Puma, rooted in his early career in —home to the brand—has included promoting football boots like the PUMA King and celebrating the company's 75th anniversary in 2024. Additional partnerships encompass ambassadorships for brands such as (2018) and BLITZbee (2025), a -based functional food company focused on wellness. In 2025, he joined the Bengal Super League as a to strengthen India-Germany football ties.

Career statistics

Club

Lothar Matthäus enjoyed a prolific club career from 1979 to 2000, amassing 785 appearances, 204 goals, and 66 assists across all competitions with four clubs. His versatility as a allowed him to contribute significantly in both defensive and attacking roles, particularly during his time in the and . Assists were inconsistently tracked in earlier seasons, but available data highlights his playmaking ability, especially later in his career. Matthäus began his professional journey at Borussia Mönchengladbach, where he made 200 appearances and scored 51 goals between 1979 and 1984, helping the club secure the 1979–80 UEFA Cup. He then joined Bayern Munich for his first stint from 1984 to 1988, contributing to multiple Bundesliga titles, before moving to Inter Milan from 1988 to 1992, where he won the Serie A in 1988–89 and the 1990 Ballon d'Or as the league's standout performer. Returning to Bayern for a second spell from 1992 to 2000, he added further domestic honors, including five more Bundesliga crowns. His career concluded with a brief stint at the New York MetroStars in Major League Soccer in 2000. The following table summarizes his statistics by club:
ClubYearsAppearancesGoalsAssists
1979–1984200511
Bayern Munich (total)1984–1988, 1992–200041010051
1988–19921545313
New York MetroStars20002101
Total78520466
Source: career statistics database. In terms of competitions, Matthäus excelled in the with 464 appearances and 121 goals, primarily during his Bayern tenures, establishing him as one of the league's all-time greats. In , he recorded 115 appearances and 40 goals with Inter, showcasing his goal-scoring prowess from midfield. Across , including the Champions League (30 appearances, 5 goals) and UEFA Cup (47 appearances, 7 goals), he made 80 total outings and netted 12 goals, contributing to Bayern's 1996 UEFA Cup triumph. Matthäus received 91 yellow cards and 4 red cards over his club career, reflecting his competitive intensity but also occasional disciplinary issues, particularly in where he accumulated 2 reds. The table below provides a seasonal overview of his and performances (league only, as primary metric for consistency), focusing on key periods to illustrate his evolution and impact:
SeasonClubCompetitionAppearancesGoalsAssists
1979–80Gladbach2820
1980–81Gladbach3360
1981–82Gladbach2940
1982–83Gladbach2540
1983–84Gladbach2200
1984–85Bayern33160
1985–86Bayern32100
1986–87Bayern31100
1987–88Bayern2980
1988–89Inter3290
1989–90Inter25110
1990–91Inter31160
1991–92Inter2740
1992–93Bayern3030
... (selected later seasons)
1998–99Bayern2525
1999–00Bayern2202
Totals (League)5791617
Note: Assists tracked reliably only from 1998–99 onward; earlier seasons estimated at 0 due to lack of data. Full seasonal details available via official records.

International

Lothar Matthäus debuted for the national team on 14 November 1980 in a 2–1 friendly win against the , aged 19, and went on to earn 150 caps until his retirement from international football on 26 June 2000 in a 3–0 defeat to . Over this 20-year span, he scored 23 goals and provided 12 assists, establishing himself as a versatile and later sweeper who contributed both offensively and defensively. His consistent performances, often bolstered by strong club form at Bayern and , secured his place in multiple major tournaments. Matthäus appeared in a record 25 matches as an outfield player across five editions (1982, 1986, 1990, 1994, 1998), scoring 6 goals, including 4 during West Germany's triumphant 1990 campaign. In the finals, he featured in four tournaments (1980, 1984, , 1992), making 11 appearances and scoring 1 goal against the in the 1988 semi-final. The remainder of his caps came in qualifiers (70 appearances, 7 goals) and friendlies (44 appearances, 9 goals), totaling 114 appearances with 16 goals, including 3 in qualifiers, 4 in qualifiers, 8 in friendlies, and 1 in the . Matthäus captained West Germany and Germany in 75 matches from 1987 to 1994, leading the team to the title and providing leadership in key defensive setups. His goals were distributed across his career, with a notable peak in when he netted 7 times, including a long-range strike in the World Cup opener against . The following table summarizes his international goals by year, based on verified scoring records:
YearGoals
19801
19811
19851
19862
19871
19884
19891
19907
19913
19942
19991
Total23
No goals were recorded in other years of his international career. Matthäus holds the record for the most appearances by an outfield player (25) and contributed to Germany's record number of major tournament outings through his longevity.

Managerial statistics

TeamFromToMatchesWinsDrawsLossesWin %
Rapid Wien6 Sep 200114 May 200232991428.13
Partizan22 Dec 200214 Dec 200344296965.91
14 Dec 200311 Jan 2006281131439.29
Atlético Paranaense11 Jan 200620 Mar 2006862075.00
Maccabi Netanya13 Jun 200829 Apr 2009321412643.75
23 Sep 201019 Sep 20111033430.00
Total15472354746.75

Honours

As player

Lothar Matthäus achieved significant success during his playing career, winning major international and club trophies while earning prestigious individual accolades. International honours Club honours
YearHonourClub
1983–84DFB-SupercupBayern Munich
1984–85BundesligaBayern Munich
1985–86BundesligaBayern Munich
1985–86DFB-PokalBayern Munich
1986–87BundesligaBayern Munich
1988–89Serie AInter Milan
1990–91UEFA CupInter Milan
1993–94BundesligaBayern Munich
1995–96UEFA CupBayern Munich
1996–97BundesligaBayern Munich
1997DFB-LigapokalBayern Munich
1997–98DFB-PokalBayern Munich
1998DFB-LigapokalBayern Munich
1998–99BundesligaBayern Munich
1999DFB-LigapokalBayern Munich
1999–00BundesligaBayern Munich
1999–00DFB-PokalBayern Munich
Individual honours
  • Ballon d'Or winner: 1990
  • World Player of the Year winner: 1991
  • German Footballer of the Year: 1990, 1999

As manager

Matthäus's managerial career yielded limited silverware, primarily at the domestic level with club sides, though he contributed to one league title as an assistant coach. He secured the with in the 2002–03 season as head coach, marking his first major trophy in management. With , serving as assistant to , he helped win the Austrian in 2006–07, the club's first title under ownership. No international titles were achieved during his tenures with national teams like or . Other notable achievements include guiding Maccabi Netanya to the semi-finals of the in 2009, where they fell to Maccabi Haifa on penalties. Matthäus received no major individual managerial awards, but he is credited with nurturing talents such as during his time at Partizan, where the defender emerged as a standout performer under his guidance. Near-misses highlighted the challenges of his international roles; for instance, as Bulgaria's coach from 2010 to 2011, he led the team to only five points in seven matches, resulting in to advance and his subsequent dismissal.

Club honors

  • 2002–03: Serbian SuperLiga – (head coach)
  • 2006–07: Austrian Bundesliga – Red Bull Salzburg (assistant coach)

Other recognitions

  • Reached Israel State Cup semi-finals with Maccabi Netanya (2008–09 season)

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  125. https://fbref.com/en/players/94260e89/Lothar-Matthaus
  126. https://www.transfermarkt.com/lothar-matthaus/nationalmannschaft/spieler/1527
  127. https://fcbayern.com/en/photos/2024/09/gallery-all-of-bayern-germany-captains-beckenbauer-kimmich
  128. https://fcbayern.com/en/teams/fc-bayern-legends/players/lothar-matthaeus
  129. https://www.transfermarkt.us/lothar-matthaus/erfolge/spieler/1527
  130. https://inside.fifa.com/en/news/from-world-player-of-the-year-to-the-best-30-years-of-history
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