Bayern Munich defender Jerome Boateng could be treading on thin ice after responding to the club's CEO's comments on his form and lifestyle.
Boateng came under heavy criticism from an angryKarl-Heinz Rummenigge after consecutive losses against Borussia Dortmund in the German top flightand FC Rostov in the Champions League.
The German was at fault for the first two goals in the 3-2 loss to Rostov, which resulted in Rummenigge questioning his conduct off the pitch.
Jerome has to calm down and take things easier [off the pitch],� he said, according toGoal.
Since the summer, it's all been a bit too much for me. It would make sense for the whole club if he comes back to earth a bit.�
Responding to the CEO's comments, Boateng said:"I can only laugh about it. I cannot say any more, but next time he can say it personally to my face and then it's fine."
"Ãœber die Aussagen kann ich nur lachen"
Jérôme Boateng hat die Rummenigge-Kritik - Stichwort "back to earth" - scharf gekontert.#ssnhd pic.twitter.com/Y3wR1X08ji
The 28-year-old was voted Man of the Year by GQ Magazine in Germany, and has also won awards for his charitable work.
Boateng owns a designer glasses label, among other marketing ventures, and is advised by rap mogul Jay-Z on his businesses in the US.
However, he has told Bild that his off-pitch activities don't affect his game, and that the performance in Russia had"nothing to do with any PR or lifestyle obligations."
The player has started just five games for Bayern this season, having suffered two muscle tears this year alone. He has played in all three of their losses though, and the German champions haven't lost a game with him out of the team.
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