Bayern Munich kickstarted their 2020/21 Bundesliga campaign with a thumping 8-0 win over Schalke 04. But on Thursday, they will face a trickier test as they lock horns with Sevilla in the UEFA Super Cup.
Unfortunately, coach Hansi Flick has a relatively thin squad, so he may not be able to afford too many chops and changes to the side that secured a victory over Schalke.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Bayern Munich Lineup Vs Sevilla
Defence
Alphonso Davies was rested against Schalke due to a slight muscular injury, but the Canadian international is expected to be fit for the Sevilla clash. He will replace Lucas Hernandez at left-back.
Unfortunately, David Alaba is still a doubt, meaning we could once again expect Jerome Boateng to marshall the Bayern Munich backline, alongside Niklas Sule in the four-man backline. Hernandez is a potential alternative should Flick look to rest Boateng.
Benjamin Pavard, meanwhile, is a guaranteed starter at right-back as Bayern lack the services of a potential alternative, following the return of Alvaro Odrioziola to Real Madrid.
Finally, Alexander Nubel might make his first appearance for Bayern Munich after joining from Schalke. He could replace Manuel Neuer in between the sticks.
Midfield
Flick is unlikely to make any changes in central midfield despite having only two reliable options. That means Joshua Kimmich and Leon Goretzka should once again form the double-pivot, looking to counter Sevilla’s midfield unit comprising of experienced superstars like Ivan Rakitic and Nemanja Gudelj.
The French duo of Corentin Tolisso and Mickael Cuisance will provide Flick with further options, especially in the second half.
Attack
Leroy Sane was given his debut for Bayern Munich against his former club on Friday. However, the ex-Manchester City starlet might be rested for this one, paving the way for Kingsley Coman to return to the starting lineup.
The Frenchman is most likely to occupy the left-wing role, with Serge Gnabry starting on the opposite flank and Thomas Muller operating in the number ten slot.
On Friday, youngster Jamal Musiala came from the bench to score a late goal against Schalke. He is an option on the bench, along with Joshua Zirkzee, who is likely to provide cover for Robert Lewandowski in the number nine role.
