In Munich, a place associated with football legend has received a new address. From now on, the Allianz Arena will be located at Franz-Beckenbauer-Platz 5. Along with the address change, Bayern has also unveiled a new jersey inspired by the characteristic shell of the Allianz Arena.

FC Bayern changes address of Allianz Arena

In Munich, one of the world's most famous stadiums has received a new location. The address change from Werner-Heisenberg-Allee 25 to Franz-Beckenbauer-Platz 5 is a tribute to the sporting achievements of Der Kaiser as well as his long-standing commitment to football and close ties to Munich. The city's mayor, Dieter Reiter, emphasized that naming the square after Beckenbauer is the highest honor Munich can posthumously grant, describing the Bayern legend as one of the greatest athletes in the city's history.

The decision to change the stadium's address was made several months after Beckenbauer’s death, although it was initially planned for the first anniversary on January 7th. Despite the delay, the event made waves in the football world.

The first match at the stadium under the new address took place on May 10th, when Bayern Munich faced Borussia Mönchengladbach, marking the first time playing as the 34-time German champions. Beckenbauer, as a Bayern icon, had already been honored within the Allianz Arena itself – a giant jersey with the number 5 hangs under the stadium’s roof, and that number has been retired from use.

© Grzegorz Kaliciak

Controversy surrounding location

The decision to name the square next to the stadium after Beckenbauer did not go without controversy. Some criticized the haste in making the decision and the location itself – a grassy hill near the highway. Some suggested that the central Marienplatz, where the club traditionally presents championship trophies, would have been more appropriate. Others pointed to the fields in Giesing as a more symbolic place. Nevertheless, the city decided to move forward with the project without waiting for a longer period after Beckenbauer’s death.

New jersey as a tribute to Allianz Arena

Changes around the stadium are not the only way to commemorate the club’s history. FC Bayern presented a new away jersey, which in its design reflects the characteristic shell of the Allianz Arena. In white-gray-coral colors, the jersey symbolizes modernity while simultaneously highlighting the stadium's 20th anniversary.

The jersey, unveiled for the first time during the match against Borussia Mönchengladbach, was warmly received by fans, although there was some criticism regarding the unconventional collar. For many fans, the combination of a tribute to Allianz Arena with new design elements is seen as a refreshing touch.

The most beautiful jersey I’ve ever seen and It looks really great. It will definitely find its way into my wardrobe – these are just a few of the enthusiastic comments from fans on Instagram.

Tweet Football Tweet https://x.com/football__tweet/status/1919288527956717671

— Football Tweet (@Football__Tweet) June 24, 2024