Bayern Munich will try to focus on the Bundesliga after they slumped to a defeat at home against defending champions Real Madrid on Wednesday. The Bavarians are well on their way to grab their fifth consecutive Bundesliga title but this weekend, they face a major challenge against a tough Bayer Leverkusen side who are looking to get back among Germany’s elites after a disappointing season. A win will almost guarantee the title for Carlo Ancelotti’s men. Here is the predicted Bayern lineup to feature against Die Werkself.
Goalkeeper: Manuel Neuer came back after a short injury absence with a bang. The German International captain played extremely well to keep his side in the game against Real Madrid. He will once again have a tough job of keeping out Leverkusen.
Right Back: The great Philip Lahm will lead the team as always. He had a rather tough night stopping the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo in midweek but is expected to put in a strong showing against Leverkusen.
Center Back(R): Javi Martinez will be looking for a much better performance after receiving a red on Wednesday. The Spanish international is currently deputising for the injured Mats Hummels in defence.
Center Back(L): Another important player in the Bayern team, Jerome Boateng’s return to fitness means a lot to the team and the coach especially. His form will depend on Bayern’s durability in defence.
Left Back: David Alaba successfully managed to outclass Danny Carvajal in the left flank against Real Madrid. The Austrian is expected to carry on his good form and contribute to his side’s offensive game.
Central Defensive Midfielder: Xabi Alonso is expected to be rested for the clash, instead, Renato Sanches might get a call-up. The Portuguese hasn’t managed to impress his new team so far, but a good performance against one of Germany’s better sides will sure help his cause.
Central Midfield: Arturo Vidal will be the midfield general for Bayern on Saturday with the absence of Xabi Alonso. The Chilean hothead missed a penalty which proved costly for the record Champions against Real Madrid. It will be interesting to see how he performs against his fellow countrymen Charles Aranguiz.
Central Midfield: Thiago Alcantara will be once again tasked with all the creative side of things in attack. The former Barcelona man has been amazing this season and is arguably the best midfielder in the Bundesliga this term.
Right Wing: Arjen Robben will be rested for the clash with the second leg beckoning next week. The Dutchman will be replaced with Kingsley Coman, who hasn’t been a crucial part of this Bayern squad this season. He will be looking for a way out of Allianz Arena next summer.
Left Wing: Franck Ribery might just be fit enough to start the game versus Leverkusen. The Frenchman has been one of the best players for Carlo Ancelotti this season and also has a good relationship with the coach.
Striker: Thomas Muller will have a second bite at the cherry after he was basically non-existent playing as the lone striker against Real Madrid. A goal or two might help him regain his confidence playing in the frontline of the attack.
