Karimi can become Bayern playmaker

IRNA - Ali Karimi has the potential to become Bayern Munich's next playmaker in the coming season, Bayern Captain Michael Ballack said in an interview with the Kicker sports magazine on Thursday.

"Ali Karimi could take up such a position. Such a number 10 would make us look good," Germany's player of year said.

Karimi who according to Bayern Coach Felix Magath is to play a crucial role in the team's offensive game plans, will field up as an offensive midfielder backed up by Michael Ballack, English international Owen Hargreaves and Bosnian national team player Hassan Salihamidzic.

The Asian player of the year made his official debut in Bayern's 2-1 German league cup semifinal loss against Bundesliga rivals VFB Stuttgart.

Bayern will open the 2005-6 Bundesliga season at home against Borussia Moenchengladbach on August 5.