Bayern Munich travel to Wanda Metropolitano on Tuesday to face Atletico Madrid. It is a must-win game for the hosts, who are stuck with five points while the Bavarians are hoping to maintain their hundred percent winning record having won all four of their matches so far. Bayern dismantled Atletico 4-0 in the reverse fixture and are labelled as huge favourites heading into this game.
Predicted Bayern Munich Vs Atletico Madrid
Defence
Bayern Munich head coach Hansi Flick is likely to ring in the changes in this dead-rubber, giving some much-needed breaks to his key players. Lucas Hernandez, in particular, is more than likely to make way for Bouna Sarr at left-back.
It should, however, force Benjamin Pavard to continue at right-back due to the lack of options in the said position. But elsewhere, we can expect a few more alterations with Chris Richards, in particular, hoping to earn a starting place in the team.
The young American could replace David Alaba this weekend, starting alongside Niklas Sule at the heart of Bayern’s four-man backline. Another young player in Alexander Nubel might not be so lucky, however, as Manuel Neuer is still likely to start in between the sticks.
Midfield
Joshua Kimmich remains on the sidelines due to injury while Marc Roca has been suspended after picking up a red card against RB Salzburg. And with Corentin Tolisso featuring on the weekend, it won’t be surprising to see Javi Martinez getting a rare opportunity.
The Spaniard was involved in the disappointing draw with Werder Bremen earlier this month, but as Flick looks to keep his team fresh ahead of a crucial encounter against RB Leipzig next weekend, we might see the ageing midfielder operate alongside Leon Goretzka in the double-pivot.
Attack
Flick could shuffle his pack in the attacking department as well, with both Serge Gnabry and Kingsley Coman returning to the bench in favour of Leroy Sane and Douglas Costa. Jamal Musiala is another option, but it’s unlikely that the youngster will be risked against a quality team like Atletico Madrid this midweek.
So the onus will be on Thomas Muller to provide the creative essence in the final third, in the number ten role, just in behind the main striker Robert Lewandowski. However, they should both remain careful knowing Atleti’s heavy metal football could lead to injuries.
