Bayern Munich CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge believes Franck Ribery will be a marked man this season, with opposition defenders attempting to rile him up with 'unfair' challenges, FourFourTwo reports.
The former France international, 33, has sparked controversy with his on-field behaviour in recent wins against Borussia Dortmund and CZ Jena.
In both matches, the winger reacted aggressively to opposing challenges and in one incident in the DFL Supercup, he appeared to elbow Felix Passlack.
Despite a former Bundesliga referee branding the 33-year-old a "ticking time bomb", Bayern's CEO Rummenigge has leapt to Ribery's defence, but insisted he should "keep his cool" when the inevitable rough challenges come in.
"Franck is a dear and likeable guy," Rummenigge told TZ. "In Jena he took it seriously and played properly, very well and very fair. Very tricky and fast - such players are often [tackled] hard and unfairly.
"It is important that he isn't provoked. I recommend he keeps his cool."
Bayern's key figures have already publicly warned Ribery of his conduct, with Carlo Ancelotti andPhilipp Lahmboth pleading with the winger to control his aggression.
The winger has endured a frustrating last couple of years with injuries limiting him to just 15 Bundesliga appearances, but his performances- perhaps overshadowed by his misdemeanours- indicate the Frenchman is back to full fitness and at his best.
The former Marseille ace spoke recently of his desire to return to Bavarian giants' starting eleven and praised the arrival of Ancelotti.
He said: "I feel free and I am fully motivated. Carlo Ancelotti is a gift for the club. Since Ancelotti has arrived, I feel more trust."