Football
Mark Lovell, Bayern Munich blogger 7y

Renato Sanches can succeed Xabi Alonso at Bayern - Rummenigge

Renato Sanches is the natural heir to Xabi Alonso when the Bayern Munich midfielder retires at the end of the season, the club's CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has told Sport Bild.

Alonso, 35, announced on Friday that he would retire at the end of the season.

Portugal international Sanches, 19, has struggled to live up to expectations since arriving from Benfica in the summer, starting only four Bundesliga games.

But Rummenigge said: "We hope Renato Sanches follows in Alonso's footsteps -- that's why we signed him.

"He has all the necessary qualities, but we will have to be patient with him."

Bayern boss Carlo Ancelotti has ruled out either selling Sanches or sending him out on loan.

And before Alonso's decision to retire was confirmed, Sanches was backed by teammate Franck Ribery, who said: "It's been a tough year for Renato.

"Perhaps it will be easier for him next season if Xabi Alonso isn't with us any longer."

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