FC Bayern wrapped up its Asian tour with a 2-1 victory over Aston Villa. However, the final test match in Hong Kong wasn’t entirely without its worries. Sacha Boey had to be substituted in the closing stages after picking up an injury. Coach Vincent Kompany provided an update on the French player afterward and also explained why Joshua Kimmich did not play against the Premier League club.
From a sporting perspective, the Munich team can head home feeling positive. Vincent Kompany’s squad defeated reigning Europa League champions Aston Villa 2-1, passing what has been the most challenging test of their preseason so far.
Shortly before the end of the match, however, there was a brief moment of concern. Sacha Boey was unable to continue playing and had to be substituted in the 80th minute. Guido Della Rovere came on to replace the right-back.
An injury to Boey, in particular, would be especially bitter at this point. The 25-year-old is among the players expected to leave the German record champions during the current transfer window. A prolonged absence could further complicate the already difficult search for a buyer.
Kompany gives the all-clear on Boey
After the final whistle, Kompany was able to give the all-clear—at least for now. The Bayern coach had already spoken with his player and does not currently appear to believe the injury is serious.
“I’ve already spoken with Sacha; it seems he’s doing fine. He took a blow,” the Belgian explained at the postgame press conference.
So, for now, it likely amounts to nothing more than a minor injury. However, it remains to be seen whether Boey will be able to resume training without restrictions after returning to Munich.
For the Frenchman, the coming weeks are significant not only from a sporting perspective. Although Boey still has a long-term contract with FC Bayern, he now plays only a minor role in the club’s plans. The Munich club would let the fullback go if a suitable offer were to come along.
Kimmich is already back in training
There had also been doubts about Joshua Kimmich’s availability ahead of the Villa game. The defensive midfielder complained of minor adductor issues and had already sat out the final training session. Ultimately, the 31-year-old did not take the field against Aston Villa.
However, Kompany made it clear after the match that there is no cause for major concern regarding Kimmich either. “He trained this morning. But we don’t want to take any risks before the start of the season and have decided to be cautious with him,” explained the Bayern coach.
His absence against Aston Villa was therefore primarily a precautionary measure. With the start of competitive play approaching, Bayern does not want to take any unnecessary risks.
Kimmich, in particular, is expected to play a central role in the record champions’ play again this coming season. After the long previous season and the subsequent World Cup, his workload during preseason is being carefully managed anyway.
According to Bayern, there is also no cause for concern regarding Bara Ndiaye. The 18-year-old is expected to return to team training next week following his knee contusion.