Rummenigge: I'm sorry that Alaba left Bayern Munich for Real Madrid

The presence of David Alaba and Toni Kroos in yet another Real Madrid success has sparked criticism of Bayern Munich in Germany.

There, a lot of voices have come out in harsh criticism of the Bavarians' management, who let go of two key players who have gone on to celebrate success away from the Allianz Arena to the despair and embarrassment of many.

Former Bayern CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge even came out to offer an apology for the Austrian's exit last summer, when he joined Real Madrid on a free transfer.

"I am very sorry about David's departure," Rummenigge told Bild.

"I apologise for that.

"He was the leader of the defence and had an incredible year under [Hansi] Flick when we won the Champions League in Lisbon.

"His departure from Bayern is very noticeable. That's something I'm sorry about, to be honest."

Regarding Kroos, who left Bayern in 2014 for 25 million euros, also for Real Madrid, Rummenigge explained that the situation was a little different.

"His agent demanded a lot from Bayern, so much so that we couldn't do it," Rummenigge stated.

"We cashed in on the transfer and I don't think we did anything wrong."

Kroos' successes with Real Madrid

Rummenigge does believe that Kroos' record - four Champions League trophies with Real Madrid and one with Bayern - highlights how good a player he is.

"We don't need to discuss his career," Rummenigge noted.

"It's extraordinary, obviously.

"More so because he's playing for a big club that wins trophies, and because he's had such great coaches."