FC Bayern are top of the table, have world-class quality – and yet are once again facing headwinds from the Bundesliga. This time the challenge is not coming from Dortmund, but from Hoffenheim. TSG star Grischa Prömel has found clear words ahead of the direct duel in the Allianz Arena and made it unmistakably clear that the team from Kraichgau do not want to settle for the role of extras
In an interview with Sky, the 31-year-old not only looked ahead to next Sunday’s match, but also focused directly on the entire championship race. The message: Hoffenheim want to stay in contention – both athletically and mentally. „We hope that we can make it exciting,“ explained Prömel, summing up exactly the scenario that FC Bayern want to avoid at all costs after their last two league games without a win
At times this season, it looked as if Bayern would get ahead of the competition early on and march confidently towards the league title, admitted Prömel. However, this impression has recently been put into perspective. Augsburg and Hamburger SV have shown that the record champions are certainly vulnerable – especially when intensity, willingness to run and conviction are right
„I’m a fan of keeping things exciting for as long as possible,“ continued Prömel. That’s more than just an empty phrase. Five wins in a row, a club record after 20 matchdays and their status as the most in-form team in the league currently give TSG every reason to be confident. Hoffenheim travel to Munich with a broad chest – and with the firm belief that they can hold their own there
„We will do everything we can to keep it alive“
The claim that Prömel openly formulates is particularly remarkable. His words are not only aimed at his own fans, but also at everyone who wants to see a real championship race. „We will do everything in our power to keep it alive,“ promised the midfielder – a clear message to FC Bayern
Prömel is in no way underestimating the quality of the league leaders. The Munich squad is full of world-class players, some of whom are „in a league of their own“. That is precisely why it is all the more important not to hide. Hoffenheim are still unbeaten this year, he emphasised – and it is precisely this self-image that should be brought to the Allianz Arena
Bayern under pressure
From Munich’s point of view, this announcement comes at an inopportune time. After the defeat against Augsburg and the draw in Hamburg, the lead over Borussia Dortmund has already shrunk to six points. Hoffenheim are nine points behind and could increase the pressure further with a win in Munich – not only in terms of the table, but also psychologically
Whether TSG’s confidence is justified will become clear on Sunday at 5:30 p.m. But one thing is already clear: FC Bayern will be up against an opponent who believes in itself, is courageous and deliberately wants to keep the title race open. And that is precisely what has already been enough to cause the record champions to falter on several occasions this Bundesliga season.