FC Bayern will be competing for a place in the semi-finals of the DFB Cup on Wednesday evening when the record champions host RB Leipzig in the quarter-finals at the Allianz Arena. Kick-off is at 8.45 p.m. Vincent Kompany will be able to draw almost from the full squad – but will once again have to make tough decisions. This is the expected line-up for Munich
After only a few competitive matches recently, there are many indications that Kompany will rely on his tried-and-tested basic formation. Despite the full squad, major rotations are unlikely, especially as this is a knockout game
Manuel Neuer is set to start in goal, while Kompany is likely to again rely on a back four of Konrad Laimer, Dayot Upamecano, Jonathan Tah and Alphonso Davies. Josip Stanisic is also a serious candidate to start on the right-hand side of defence, although Laimer is currently considered the slight favourite
In central midfield, there is much to be said for the duo of Joshua Kimmich and Aleksandar Pavlovic. Both have recently established themselves as a stable axis. Alternatives would be Leon Goretzka or Tom Bischof, who could also play an early role depending on the course of the game
Will Gnabry start in the attacking center?
Kompany once again has several options in attack. Michael Olise and Luis Diaz are the first choice on the wings. The role behind the front line is open: Serge Gnabry currently has a good chance here, although Lennart Karl and Jamal Musiala are also pushing for a place in the starting eleven. Musiala is once again an option for a greater share of the game following his return, while Karl also remains a candidate
There’s no getting around Harry Kane in the center of attack, as the Englishman is fit and should make the difference with his presence and finishing power
The likely Bayern starting XI at a glance: Neuer – Laimer, Upamecano, Tah, Davies – Kimmich, Pavlovic – Olise, Gnabry, Luis Diaz – Kane
Kompany said of the game against RB: „Both teams know each other very well. They have the wingers and the attacking trio that scores a lot of goals and has a lot of creativity. It’s a team that is strong offensively. We’ve always shown what we can do against Leipzig. The game is at home, it’s a must-win game. We want to show what we can do. We also have the wingers and incredibly strong central players. If we can get the balance right, it can be a very good game for us.“
Leipzig coach Ole Werner will probably rely on an attacking back three
The expected line-up for RB Leipzig: Vandevoordt – R. Baku, Orban, Bitshiabu, Raum – Seiwald – Schlager, Baumgartner – Diomande, Romulo, Nusa