FC Bayern is under pressure after two consecutive draws. Following the 2-2 draw against FC Augsburg and the disappointing 3-3 tie in the Champions League against Viking Stavanger, the Munich team is looking to finally secure a win again this coming Saturday against RB Leipzig. But the Saxons are traveling to Munich with a clear message.
National team player David Raum believes in his team’s chances despite the German record champions being the favorites. In an interview with Sky, the 28-year-old made it clear that Leipzig is by no means traveling to Munich to concede defeat without a fight.
That said, the left back has a realistic assessment of the balance of power. After all, FC Bayern has shown significantly more consistency on the field than RB Leipzig in recent years.
“We don’t see ourselves as underdogs.”
“We don’t see ourselves as complete underdogs right now, but you have to admit that given Bayern’s quality—especially in recent years—and the way things have gone for them compared to how our last two years have been, we’re no longer quite on the same level,” Raum explained.
A remarkably candid assessment from the German national team player, who doesn’t want to sugarcoat the on-field development of either team.
Nevertheless, he sees enough quality in his own squad to cause Bayern problems. “Still, we have the squad and the quality to give Bayern a run for their money and definitely come away with something,” emphasized the Leipzig star.
His message is clear: RB doesn’t intend to hide at the Allianz Arena.
Bayern under pressure after two draws
For Vincent Kompany’s team, the match against Leipzig comes at a crucial time.
The recent loss of points has shown that the record champions are currently struggling primarily with individual mistakes and defensive lapses.
Against Stavanger, Munich let the win slip away despite holding a 3-2 lead at one point. They also managed only a draw against Augsburg earlier.
Leipzig is likely to try to capitalize on Bayern’s current uncertainty. Under coach Martin Demichelis, the Saxons want to prove that they can hold their own even against an opponent with stronger individual players.
Raum expressed Leipzig’s approach with corresponding confidence: “That’s why we’re heading there with courage.”
For Bayern, the focus will be on correcting their recent mistakes and responding to the criticism of the past few days with a strong performance on the field.
One thing is already certain: An intimidated opponent is not to be expected at the Allianz Arena on Saturday.