Bayern Munich are readying themselves for the first test of their title credentials in the Bundesliga this season as they welcome Bayer Leverkusen to the Allianz Arena on Friday 15 September.
Thomas Tuchel’s side have a perfect record in the German top-flight so far, winning all three of their opening matches. Commanding victories against Werder Bremen and Augsburg were followed by a late win away at Borussia Monchengladbach just before the international break interrupted the Bundesliga season.
The majority of the Bayern squad found themselves dotted across the globe with their national teams, with very few offered a fortnight of rest and recuperation.
Focus must be sharp against Xabi Alonso’s Leverkusen who have similarly won all three of their league games so far this season. Friday’s visitors have been in sensational form at the beginning of the campaign, sweeping teams aside and scoring goals for fun, meaning Bayern will have to be at their best to avoid a slip-up.
Here is how Bayern could line up against Leverkusen.
GK: Sven Ulreich – The recent arrival of Daniel Peretz could eventually see Ulreich drop out of the team until Manuel Neuer returns from injury, but his spot should be secure for now.
RB: Noussair Mazraoui – Benjamin Pavard’s summer exit has resulted in Mazraoui taking over his starting berth on the right side of defence, with very little competition for his place.
CB: Dayot Upamecano – The French defender returns from international duty and should find his way straight back into the starting lineup. He continues to grow into his role and is beginning to build a nice partnership with Kim Min-jae.
CB: Kim Min-jae – Has already proven his worth in a Bayern shirt, taking his Napoli form to Munich. Matthijs de Ligt will struggle to get himself back in the starting lineup.
LB: Alphonso Davies – One of the few Bayern players to enjoy a rest over the international period which should put him in good stead to continue his great start to the season.
CM: Leon Goretzka – Still not a fan favourite at the Allianz Arena, but Bayern’s lack of central midfield options makes him a shoo-in to start.
CM: Joshua Kimmich – Will be assessed after picking up a knock on international duty against Japan, potentially resulting in him missing out on the visit of Leverkusen. Konrad Laimer will fill in should he be absent, but Kimmich will certainly start if deemed fit.
RM: Leroy Sane – Scored twice with Germany over the international break, adding to the three he has already managed for Bayern this season. Will be looking to find space in between Alex Grimaldo and Edmond Tapsoba on the right flank.
AM: Thomas Muller – Was favoured by Tuchel in the absence of Jamal Musiala against Gladbach and should be on course for another start. Scored against France for Germany on international duty.
LM: Kingsley Coman – Started every game for Bayern in the Bundesliga this season and has been impressive despite not returning the attacking output he might have expected.
ST: Harry Kane – Will be looking to add to his three Bayern goals against Leverkusen and will undoubtedly be buoyed by his late strike against Scotland for England. Will need to be at his best against an imposing back three.
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