Following a disappointing defeat to PSG in the Champions League, Bayern Munich shift their attention back to the Bundesliga as they take on Union Berlin on Saturday. The Bavarians currently have a healthy seven-point lead over second-placed Leipzig but a win could be critical in securing an unnerving end to the campaign.
Predicted Bayern Munich Lineup Vs Union Berlin
Defence
Hansi Flick is currently going through an injury crisis at the moment, with Lucas Hernandez becoming the latest defender to be ruled out against Union Berlin.
Fortunately for Bayern, Benjamin Pavard is available despite missing training and should occupy the right-back position while Alphonso Davies starts on the opposite flank, in the absence of Hernandez.
Niklas Sule has been ruled out in central defence while Flick might want to keep David Alaba fresh for the second leg encounter against PSG. As such, we expect Javi Martinez to get a rare opportunity at the heart of Bayern’s four-man backline, alongside Jerome Boateng.
Manuel Neuer remains a guaranteed starter in goal for the Bavarians, hoping to improve on his performance against PSG in the last game.
Midfield
Flick is missing more players in midfield including Marc Roca, Leon Goretzka and Corentin Tolisso. It leaves Joshua Kimmich as the only viable first-team option in the middle of the park.
The German international will thus play a critical role in marshalling the Bayern Munich side, with his leadership and aggression. His presence could also be important in helping Tiago Dantas, who is poised for a start in light of the club’s injury crisis in midfield.
Attack
Moving forward, Leroy Sane missed training for Bayern Munich heading into this game. The winger, however, is set to be in contention to feature against Union Berlin, although it is unlikely that Flick will want to rush him back into the side.
Instead, the German tactician could provide a starting opportunity for the young Jamal Musiala. The 18-year-old should occupy the wide attacking role alongside Kingsley Coman while Thomas Muller is set to operate in his preferred number ten role.
Without Goretzka, however, Muller could be asked to play in a more advanced role, almost alongside Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, as the former Schalke star continues to deputise for the injured Robert Lewandowski.
