Ofli, born in 2007 in Munich, and Pavic, born in 2010 in Freising, made their respective first-team debuts for Bayern, entering the match in the 56th and 72nd minutes. Central defender Pavic made history, becoming the first player from "Generation Alpha" (born 2010 onwards) to debut in the Champions League, at the age of 16 years and 58 days.

Deniz Ofli (second from left) and Filip Pavic (center) celebrate with teammates after Bayern defeated Atalanta 4-1 in the Champions League round of 16 second leg at Allianz Arena, Munich on 19/3. *Photo: imago*

Despite being a focus of attention, neither player could make any statements after the match. According to German sports daily Bild, Pavic left the Allianz Arena dressing room at 23h 28min and proceeded directly to the team bus. A Bayern staff member blocked all interview requests for Pavic and subsequently for Ofli in the mixed zone.

The Bavarian club's explanation was concise: "Their working hours had expired."

According to Bild, Bayern must comply with Germany's current Youth Labor Protection Act. This law generally stipulates that individuals under 18 years of age are not permitted to work after 20h. However, in 2021, an exception was added, allowing athletes to compete until 23h.

Beyond this timeframe, players require a special permit. This was Bayern's reason for declining interviews for Pavic, as such activities are also considered "part of the job."

This regulation, in fact, does not affect Ofli, who will turn 19 on 29/3. However, Bayern still used it as a "shield" to protect the left-winger from excessive media attention.

Also during the victory against Atalanta, Bayern nearly introduced another young talent from their academy, goalkeeper Leonard Prescott, born in 2009. With all four goalkeepers — Manuel Neuer, Jonas Urbig, Sven Ulreich, and Leon Klanac — injured, 16-year-old Prescott emerged as a reluctant option. However, before kickoff, Urbig recovered in time to start for Bayern.

By Ha Phuong