After a week full of international matches, the Bundesliga is set to get back underway this weekend. League leaders FC Bayern will host their fellow Bavarian rivals FC Augsburg. The record champions have been in excellent form in the second half of the season. Bayern currently have a huge 13-point advantage at the top and have a great chance to extend that tally this Saturday. Here is the predicted 4-3-3 lineup for to feature against Michael Baum’s newly reinvigorated Augsburg.
Goalkeeper: Manuel Neuer is expected to miss this weekend’s encounter with Augsburg. Second choice goalkeeper Sven Ulreich will finally feature as the man between the sticks for Bayern. The former Stuttgart goalkeeper is yet to make an appearance in the Bundesliga this season.
Right Back: Unfortunately, Philip Lahm is slowly heading to his final few games as a professional football. The former German International announced he’ll be retiring at the end of the season. Lahm will lead his side in Saturday’s clash against the Bavarian rivals.
Centre Back (R): Jerome Boateng is expected to make a comeback after a long spell on the sidelines, which will be a huge bonus for Bayern. However, he probably won’t start against Michael Baum’s side due to precautions. Instead, David Alaba might feature on as a centre back once again.
Centre Back (L): Hummels has been in fine form ever since he joined Bayern from Dortmund last summer. The 27-year-old had one of his best games as a Bayern player in the game against Frankfurt. He will look to keep Bayern’s flow intact from the back.
Left Back: Juan Bernat is set to make an appearance against Augsburg. The Spanish fullback has struggled for game time under Ancelotti but has responded very well, when he has been called up by the Italian boss. He will do his best to impress his manager as he once again seeks a great performance on the left flank.
Centre Defensive Midfield: Arturo Vidal will once again play the role of midfield general for Bayern. He will be in for a tough encounter against the likes of Daniel Baier and co.
Centre Defensive Midfield: Xabi Alonso’s absence might force Thiago to play a little deeper role alongside Vidal. The 25-year-old was recently linked with FC Barcelona a few days ago, due to his stellar performances this season. The 4th official analysed the transfer rumour between him and Barca here in this article.
Right Midfield: There can’t be any other than Arjen Robben. The Dutch winger is arguably the best winger Bayern have at the moment. He will spill his magic against Augsburg this Saturday.
Centre Attacking Midfield: Thomas Muller will play a central role due to the absence of Xabi Alonso. Muller has been awful this season but surprisingly, he has created more chances than any other Bayern player this campaign.
Left Wing: We might see the “Robbery” duo in action on Saturday as Franck Ribery is expected to start as a left winger for Bayern. Ribery has been equally productive in offence and he will look to demolish the opposition defence with his individual qualities.
Striker: Robert Lewandowski will be the central figure in Bayern’s attack. The Polish International has scored the second most goals in this year’s Bundesliga. His scoring boots are vital for Bayern not just against Augsburg but for the rest of the season as well.
