FC Bayern made a real statement with its commanding victory over Atlético Madrid. Despite the impressive team performance, one problem remains for the German record champions. The tight roster situation could still cause the Munich team considerable difficulties in the coming weeks.
From a sporting perspective, the Champions League match in Madrid could hardly have gone better for Bayern. The team led by Vincent Kompany—who continues to be represented by assistant coach Aaron Danks—was in impressive form against Atlético. Their aggressive pressing and solid defensive work were particularly impressive.
But behind the strong performance lies a problem that has continued to escalate in recent weeks. Numerous key players are unavailable due to injury. Especially on offense, the team’s options are now limited.
On the Sky podcast “Mia san vier,” Bayern insider Kerry Hau made it clear that he sees this as the biggest challenge for the Munich team. While the team continues to perform at the highest level on the field, the situation has become significantly more difficult compared to last season.
Hau sees a lack of rotation as Bayern’s biggest problem
“The only problem they simply have now compared to last season is that not the entire roster is fit enoughfor Kompany or the coaching staff to rotate the lineup, ”Hau explained.
The Sky reporter sees workload management, in particular, as a decisive factor for the coming weeks. After the international break, Bayern faces several back-to-back match weeks with demanding fixtures in the Bundesliga, the DFB Cup, and the Champions League.
The recent injuries to Ismael Saibari and Serge Gnabry are particularly bitter blows. Both attacking players had to be substituted due to injury during the 2-2 draw against Borussia Dortmund. Saibari is expected to be sidelined for three to four months following his syndesmotic ligament tear and subsequent surgery. Gnabry will be out with a muscle injury at least until Christmas.
Added to this are Jamal Musiala and Luis Díaz, who remain sidelined. As a result, the Munich side is missing several key options for regularly rotating their offense and spreading the workload across different players.
Musiala’s return will be a decisive factor
For Hau, therefore, a lot depends on how quickly the injured players will be available again. The Sky reporter is particularly concerned about Jamal Musiala’s situation. “The big question is: Will Jamal Musiala ever return to his former form?” Hau posed in the podcast.
The 23-year-old has had to cope with repeated health setbacks in recent months. Although Musiala is expected to be gradually reintroduced to match action after the international break, it remains to be seen when he will reach his usual level of performance.
In this context, Hau also pointed to Alphonso Davies. The Canadian has recently shown a significant improvement in his performance and is no longer a cause for concern. His development demonstrates just how important the return of individual players can be for the team.
Despite his concerns, Hau views Bayern’s current form as positive overall. He said the team is in better shape than some observers might have assumed following the recent setbacks.