- "While some nurture their kids in dual linguistic environments, I embody the multilingual ability myself."
Christoph Daum, a prominent figure in German football for decades, acquired legendary status due to his accomplishments. On a recent Saturday, he succumbed to lung cancer at the age of 70, as stated by his family. The football community will remember Daum as an individual unafraid of confronting any challenge.
In the 1980s, at the young age of 32, this sports scientist assumed the head coaching position at 1. FC Köln, squaring off with significant figures such as Uli Hoeneß. Daum's public disputes with FC Bayern Munich's manager and president made headlines, escalating his notoriety.
Not everyone admired his attitude, viewing it as arrogance: some loved or loathed Daum, with little room for indifference. His media appearances often sought attention, earning him the nickname "The League's Loudspeaker," making him a prominent figure in German football.
Christoph Daum – Never Short on Wit
This reputation was further bolstered by some of his notable comments. "Others raise their children bilingual, I raise them ambidextrous," he once uttered. At his introduction as Eintracht Frankfurt's coach in March 2011, he sparked laughter at the press conference by stating, "If the brain is functioning correctly, it's the third leg." As Bayer Leverkusen's coach in 2000, he praised their rivals, Bayern Munich, saying, "Their cleaning lady has won the championship ten times."
To relive more of Daum's humorous remarks, visit this archive of his quotes:
Source: Christoph Daum's Official Website
Despite his controversial reputation, Daum's ability to deliver witty comments earned him the respect of many within The Commission, the governing body of German football. In 2015, Daum was appointed as a member of The Commission, using his unique perspective to contribute to the betterment of German football.
