FC Bayern will have to play without Jamal Musiala in the Super Cup against Borussia Dortmund. Vincent Kompany confirmed on Friday that the 23-year-old will not be part of the roster. This immediately raises the question of who will replace the German national team player in the center of the attack.
Jamal Musiala will not be on FC Bayern’s roster for the Franz Beckenbauer Super Cup against BVB. Jamal Musiala recently missed the games against Leipzig and Heidenheim. These absences were reportedly due to a change in his medication.
His medication is now set to be adjusted again, which is why Musiala will not be on the roster against Dortmund. The attacking star is now set to get the rest he needs as the process continues. Kompany therefore does not want to take any unnecessary risks.
“He’s not on the roster. It’s really just about us wanting this adjustment to take place without any pressure,” Kompany explained at the press conference.
With Musiala out, the question arises as to who will start in the center of the attack against FC Bayern in the Super Cup.
Saibari set to make his debut at the “10” position
The most likely solution is likely to be Ismael Saibari. The new signing has fully returned to team training following his muscle strain and could make his debut for FC Bayern in his favorite position in his very first competitive match for the club.
The 25-year-old had already stated during his introductory press conference that he prefers to play as a playmaker. For Kompany, Saibari also brings exactly the qualities the Bayern coach needs in the midfield.
“Ismael Saibari has so much power and speed, and he’s a good finisher. It’s important that he builds chemistry with his teammates. He’ll play a role tomorrow. He’s coming off an injury, so we’ll see how many minutes he gets,” Kompany explained.
Olise could move into the center
Another option would be Michael Olise. The Frenchman could take the position behind Harry Kane, providing additional creativity in the center.
However, this would mean Kompany would lose an important option on the wing. Especially given the available alternatives, this option could therefore have consequences for the entire offensive lineup.
Serge Gnabry and Lennart Karl, on the other hand, are not yet available. Kompany also confirmed this at the press conference.
Ibrahimović and Bischof are also options
If Kompany has a surprise up his sleeve, Arijon Ibrahimović could also move into the center. The 20-year-old can play in several offensive positions and has already gained experience playing behind the striker during his loan stint at 1. FC Heidenheim.
A more defensive option would be Tom Bischof. The midfielder has consistently performed well in preseason and could provide additional control in the center of the Bayern lineup.
As it stands, there’s a strong case for Saibari at the “10” position. Kompany, however, has several options to compensate for Musiala’s absence—and could spring his first tactical surprise right away against Dortmund.