Markus Babbel admits Western Sydney Wanderers can’t afford Franck Ribery

Bayern Munich's French midfielder Franck Ribery
Bayern Munich's French midfielder Franck RiberySource: AFP
Staff Writers from Fox Sports

Western Sydney Wanderers boss Markus Babbel has opened up on a potential move to bring departing Bayern Munich superstar Franck Ribery to Wanderland.

In an interview with Sky Sports Germany, the German coach suggested that the A-League side had been priced out of a move for the Frenchman.

“The current situation is such that we cannot afford it, I have had a long conversation with our chairman and unfortunately he is not ready to go deep into his pocket,” Babbel said.

“But the door is still open, and if he wants to live a good life with his family, he will have absolute peace and serenity, and Australia would be the perfect place to live in one of the most beautiful cities in the world a fantastic lifestyle”

It seems as though Franck Ribery won’t be coming to AustraliaSource: AP

“From a footballer’s point of view, of course, he would be the rock star here, so some of my players would probably be frozen in awe, but the overall Ribéry package is not affordable for us at the moment.”

Babbel won three Bundesliga titles with Bayern, and was very keen on using his connections to bring the decorated winger down under. But it appears the price of such a move is unattainable for the Sydney outfit, who are in deep need of a squad rebuild after finishing a disappointing eighth this season.

Ribery himself commented on the potential move as he announced his exit from the German giants after 12 seasons – and didn’t shut down a potential switch.

“But why should not I move to colleague Babbel?” he said.

“I do not know. There are many options. I’m not sure yet where I’m going.”s