Bayern Munich resume their campaign in the Bundesliga when they lock horns with Arminia Bielefeld on Monday. The Bavarians became the second European club in history to secure the sextuple, thanks to their midweek triumph in the FIFA Club World Cup. However, the focus will now shift towards Bundesliga, where they are hoping to maintain their lead at the top with a win over Bielefeld.
Predicted Bayern Munich Lineup Vs Arminia Bielefeld
Defence
It remains unclear if Bayern Munich are going to have Jerome Boateng back after the defender flew back to Munich in midweek due to personal reasons. Therefore, Niklas Sule is a safe pick at central defence, with the German international likely to partner David Alaba at the heart of the four-man backline.
Alaba featured as a defensive midfielder in the Club World Cup final against Tigres but should return to central defence on Monday, at the expense of Lucas Hernandez.
Hansi Flick is unlikely to make any other change in defence, as Benjamin Pavard and Alphonso Davies continue as fullbacks following impressive performances in midweek. Manuel Neuer should also retain his place in between the sticks, and is hoping to continue his excellent run of clean sheets.
Midfield
Bayern Munich have been blessed by the return of Leon Goretzka, who missed a few matches due to Covid-19. The German international should slot back into the double-pivot, alongside Joshua Kimmich.
Corentin Tolisso is another option after the Frenchman returned to full fitness in midweek. It won’t be surprising to see him operate in the number ten position, as Flick deals with the absence of Thomas Muller, who has been diagnosed with Covid-19. Jamal Musiala serves as an alternative for Tolisso in the attacking midfield role while Marc Roca could start if Goretzka isn’t available.
Attack
Moving forward, Flick will have to deal with another injury-related absentee in Serge Gnabry. The former Bremen forward has picked up a thigh problem, which should pave the way for Leroy Sane to receive yet another rare start at right-wing.
Kingsley Coman is a guaranteed starter on the opposite flank, with the duo set to form the creative trifecta alongside Tolisso. These three individuals will play a key role in providing the supply for Robert Lewandowski, who is keen on breaking Gerd Muller’s record by scoring more than 40 goals in the Bundesliga this campaign.
