FC Bayern travel to the Bundesliga classic in Dortmund with a number of question marks hanging over coach Vincent Kompany ahead of Saturday evening’s top-of-the-table clash, with captain Manuel Neuer the main concern
While BVB were in action in the Champions League during the week, Munich were actually able to prepare in a targeted manner. But there can be no talk of rest at Säbener Straße
Neuer signals problems
Manuel Neuer completed a more intensive session for the first time since tearing a muscle fibre in his calf on Thursday. The 39-year-old worked with goalkeeping coach Michael Rechner and his assistants for around 45 minutes, during which flying saves and dynamic movements in the penalty area were again on show – a positive sign
However, it was noticeable that Neuer kept stretching his left calf. After training, he sought a chat with Rechner and rehab coach Simon Martinello, grabbing his leg and lower back several times. Shortly afterwards, he left the sideline
A clear comeback signal looks different. Whether Neuer will be able to stand between the posts at Signal Iduna Park remains to be seen. One thing is clear: FC Bayern will not take any unnecessary risks
Ito and Kim also injured
However, the concerns are not limited to the captain. Two other defensive players, Hiroki Ito and Minjae Kim, had to pull out of training early. According to tz, Ito complained of muscular problems and Kim is said to have felt pain in his knee
A final diagnosis has yet to be made, but time is running out until Saturday and things could get tight in central defense in particular if one of the two is not fit in time
It is already certain that Alphonso Davies will be missing, as the Canadian is suffering from a torn muscle fiber and is not expected to be available again until March
Bright spot through Pavlovic and Olise
At least there is some positive news: Aleksandar Pavlovic and Michael Olise have returned to team training after undergoing stress management. Both should be ready for action against Dortmund
Nevertheless, Kompany faces a tricky task. Stability and leading players are needed, especially in the classic – but it is precisely in defence that the personnel structure is shaky. The final decision on whether to field several players will probably only be made shortly before kick-off.