Munich delighted with trip to Japan

Even noted perfectionist Uli Hoeneß visibly relaxed following Bayern's second friendly in Tokyo and a successful conclusion to their four-day Japan trip, or so onlookers deduced from the general manager's smiles and loud cries of triumph during a hand of cards with Jens Jeremies, Hasan Salihamidzic and physio Fredi Binder after dinner on the 40th floor of the New Otani hotel on Saturday night.

The only person to miss out on the general euphoria was Paolo Guerrero, who retired early with exhaustion, but the young Peru striker was included in the fulsome praise handed out by Hoeneß as he summed up the club's stay in the Far East. "We're extremely satisfied. The players have given an outstanding account of themselves, both on the field and off it. They were completely professional."

Four fabulous days in Tokyo

Despite jet-lag and disturbed sleeping patterns, Oliver Kahn and company uncomplainingly forged ahead with a demanding programme including dates with sponsors, receptions, training sessions and matches. "The players have won a lot of sympathy and turned in convincing displays in both matches," Karl-Heinz Rummenigge exclusively told fcbayern.de.

"We've enjoyed four fabulous days here and felt completely at home. We've been very, very happy," head coach Felix Magath declared, reserving the highest praise for the team: "They've made a superb contribution." The boss also thanked those responsible for organising the trip: "We've been looked after extremely well. The arrangements were perfect, and we got through a lot of good work."

Magath pleased with final warm-up matches

Alongside the job of raising Bayern's profile in Japan, Magath used the time to begin fine-tuning ready for the resumption of Bundesliga hostilities next week. "Both friendlies were very useful tests, and pretty much everyone here got a run out," the 52 year-old observed. Saturday's 3-1 victory over Jubilo Iwata provided the German double winners with a successful dress rehearsal for next Friday's meeting with Borussia Monchengladbach at the Allianz Arena.

"It was important to restart the Bundesliga on the back of a victory," Magath commented. The match also offered Oliver Kahn the chance to prove his fitness with a first 90 minute appearance of the pre-season period. "The pain has gone," the captain declared after a full week suffering with persistent back problems.

Bayern look best with Ballack

The games in Tokyo provided evidence of Michael Ballack's swift return to peak form just 10 days after resuming training. The midfielder scored twice against Iwata, "and he added another dimension to our game. He's running into form," Magath analysed.

Bayern's first tour of Japan thus ended in success and smiles all round. "Sayonara Tokyo," and perhaps see you again soon!