While many of his big-name players try to supress their anguish and disappointment at an early World Cup exit, new Bayern Munich boss Niko Kovac was in high spirits as he got to work in training.
Kovac has taken over from Jupp Heynckes and the former Eintrakt Frankfurt boss has revealed that while he cannot yet get a look at all the players in his squad, he is planning an overhaul to 'improve the squad in every area'.
Frank Ribery, Arjen Robben and Swansea flop Renato Sanches all took part in the session as players look to prove their worth to Kovac ahead of the pre-season tour to America.
New Bayern Munich boss Niko Kovac (left) alongside brother and assistant Robert in training
Frenchman Franck Ribery was in high spirits as the Bundesliga champions got back to work
Pre-season is a big opportunity for Swansea flop Renato Sanches to impress the new manager
Kovac takes the job on the back of Bayern's sixth consecutive Bundesliga title but admits players, from his early meetings, are hungrier than ever to add silverware to the trophy cabinet.
Speaking at his first press conference in the job on Monday, Kovac said: 'These are players who have been here for years and can motivate themselves. Even though they've won a lot, they want to win more.
'My goal is to improve every player, technically and tactically. If we can improve in every area a little bit, then we have chances to win a trophy or two. There was a coach here who won everything in Germany, a lot who didn't, we'll see what happens but we're here to win titles.'
With talk of player changes, it appeared a huge opportunity for Sanches after a disappointing loan spell in the Premier League.
The new manager was an animated figure as he looks to imprint his philosophy on his team
Fitness was a key part of Wednesday's session as players build up their stamina after a break
Veteran winger Arjen Robben recently signed a new deal and will want more success next year
The Portuguese prospect arrived in Germany to much anticipation but quickly found himself out of favour and shipped out to Swansea where he similarly failed to find form.
But with the likes of Germany's Thomas Muller, Spain's Thiago Alcantara and Colombia's James Rodriguez all involved - and all now eliminated - in the World Cup, he has a rare opportunity to stand out.
'We as a coaching team want to improve the squad in every area,' Kovac added.
'First of all, I want to get to know the players, new and old, and the youth players, too. We don't have our full squad so we'll fill it with youth players for now.
'Pre-season means hard work, we need to gain fitness and integrate a new system into the squad.'
Kingsley Coman, overlooked for a spot in the France World Cup squad, was part of training
Robben's Holland failed to qualify and he was an experienced face among a youthful squad
Kovac confirmed those who have been involved at the World Cup will not join up with the rest of the squad until July 25 with the new manager endearing himself to the players by allowing extra holiday.
The new manager and his coaching staff took a hands on approach in the training session, relaying plenty of instructions.
A key focus was on the fitness as players were put through their paces to see how well some had looked after themselves since the domestic season ended.
Kovac's first game in charge will be against Paris Saint-Germain on July 21 as part of the International Champions Cup.