Ahead of the Champions League semi-final between FC Bayern and Paris Saint-Germain, club legend Bastian Schweinsteiger has his say – and is surprisingly cautious. While many are expecting an attacking spectacle, the 2014 World Cup winner sees the dangers that await Munich at the Prinzenpark
„Normally, you could assume that a lot of goals will be scored because both attacks have enormous quality,“ explained Schweinsteiger in an interview with the Abendzeitung München. In view of the enormous penetrating power of both teams, a high-scoring game seems likely – but this is precisely where the former midfielder also sees a risk for the German record champions
Because unlike coach Vincent Kompany, who wants to win every game, Schweinsteiger would already sign off on a different result. „Even a 1-1 draw would be good for them,“ stressed the 41-year-old, adding that the most important thing is for Bayern to secure a good starting position for the second leg in Munich
Schweinsteiger is banking on home advantage in the second leg
The ex-professional’s assessment is based above all on the importance of the second leg in the Allianz Arena
punch,“ explained Schweinsteiger, underlining the home advantage factor
That is precisely why he believes it is essential that Munich do not lose their way in Paris. „It is therefore important that they don’t go down,“ he made clear. The message is clear: control instead of risk – at least in the first leg
However, this approach could be at odds with Kompany’s playing philosophy, who is known for his bold attacking soccer. The comeback in the 4-3 win in Mainz showed once again that Bayern also rely on attack in difficult situations
Big words for Olise – comparisons with Robben and Ribéry
One topic on which Schweinsteiger and the current Bayern team are in agreement is Michael Olise. The French attacking player has developed into a key player in a very short space of time – and is also praised in the highest terms by the club legend
„He belongs in the world-class section,“ explained Schweinsteiger, who is particularly impressed by Olise’s style of play: „He’s incredibly difficult to tackle because he’s incredibly light-footed and agile. He always makes his moves at the right moment, so his timing is fantastic.“
The comparison with former Bayern stars is also interesting. While Olise’s play is reminiscent of Arjen Robben, Schweinsteiger still sees potential for development. „I’d like to see him use his right foot more often. Franck Ribéry excelled at that in my time,“ said the 41-year-old
Schweinsteiger also emphasizes the Frenchman’s personality off the pitch, finding his reserved manner refreshing: „I find that very likeable, and if he gets his energy like that, it’s great for Bayern.“
In the end, the starting position remains clear: FC Bayern will face an opponent on an equal footing – and, according to Schweinsteiger, must avoid one thing above all: losing their footing in Paris. Because then the second leg in Munich could become the decisive trump card.