FC Bayern are heading into the hot phase of the season with a broad chest. Eleven points ahead in the Bundesliga, having reached the semi-finals of the DFB Cup and fully on course in the Champions League – the sporting omens could hardly be better. But at Säbener Straße, it is not just the league position that is currently inspiring confidence. Above all, it is the feeling within the team
Several Bayern professionals see a decisive parallel to the treble season of 2020 – the year in which the record champions won the Bundesliga, DFB Cup and Champions League. Serge Gnabry had clear words in the club magazine „51“: „I can already see parallels to the treble-winning team of 2020 – even if it’s still early to make big statements. But for me, the mood in the team is already the best it’s been since then.“
A remarkable assessment, given that Gnabry is one of the few remaining players from that historic season
Unity as a success factor
Captain Manuel Neuer, who won the premier class in 2013 and 2020, also underlines the special team spirit. „Everyone is playing an important part in the team at the moment. Everyone feels comfortable and is doing their bit,“ explained the 39-year-old. A statement that reveals a lot about the current hierarchy: there is no factionalism, no dissatisfaction – everyone knows their role
Hiroki Ito even describes the atmosphere as a mental key: „Our attitude reminds me a bit of the Japanese mentality. We respect each other, fight for each other and give everything for the club.“ This attitude is not only noticeable in games, but also in training
Harry Kane also emphasizes the growing harmony. „The more I play with them, the better I understand my teammates,“ says the Englishman. The processes are taking hold, the automatisms are in place – a decisive factor in the phase of the season in which small details decide between titles and disappointment
Focus on Gladbach and Bergamo
Before the Champions League round of 16 first leg at Atalanta Bergamo next week, Borussia Mönchengladbach await at the Allianz Arena on Friday evening. Munich want to further consolidate their strong starting position – with confidence, but without cockiness
Comparisons with 2020 may be premature, but one thing is clear: the mixture of sporting dominance and exceptional team spirit is indeed reminiscent of the great Bayern years. And that is precisely what is making the competition particularly nervous at the moment.