Bundesliga is the only one among Europe’s top five leagues to resume their season following a break from Coronavirus.
Yet, league leaders, Bayern Munich have many reasons to celebrate, not only because of their latest Der Klassiker triumph over Borussia Dortmund but also because of immense success in this calendar year. And in this article, we will discuss three reasons why Bayern Munich are the best team in Europe right now.
A reformed defence
The injuries to several key defenders throughout this season have turned out to be a blessing in disguise for Bayern Munich, it seems.
Indeed, the Bavarians have gone through a significant reform in the defensive department and credit should be given to David Alaba. The Austrian has effortlessly slotted into the central defensive role, creating a formidable partnership with Jerome Boateng.
Alaba was initially a deputy for the injured Niklas Sule. But, his commitment, intelligence and experience mean the German international is going to have a tough time getting regular minutes next season.
Another key move that only improved the Bayern backline is Joshua Kimmich returning to his holding midfield duties, allowing Benjamin Pavard to establish himself as a first-choice right-back. The Frenchman has done extremely well, providing ample support in both attack and defence.
Such balance in the defensive department has helped Bayern Munich retain the best defensive record in the league as well as keeping the most number of clean sheets.
Pace on the flanks
Bayern have adapted well following the loss of old guards like Philipp Lahm, Franck Ribery and Arjen Robben. They have replaced those experienced heads with youthful exuberance, who have caused terror on the flanks this season.
Alphonso Davies, in particular, makes a strong case for being one of the fastest footballers in the world at the moment. The Canadian has successfully established himself as a premier left-back for Hansi Flick’s side.
His pace, commitment and aggression have added another dimension to Bayern’s wide play, which has been complemented by the equally threatening presence of Serge Gnabry and Kingsley Coman. As a result, the Bundesliga giants have effortlessly attacked the opposition with their pace on the break, thus making them much more flexible on the counter.
Thomas Muller & the creative presence
Thomas Muller makes a strong case for being the most in-form player in the Bundesliga right now. He has been a revelation following the arrival of Flick and currently has the highest number of assists in the league. His smart movements, vision and positional intelligence have added great depth to Bayern’s creative presence in the final third.
Along with Muller, players like Thiago Alcantara and Leon Goretzka have also enjoyed tremendous success under Flick. Their effortless passing and transition have catapulted the club’s receding form and for good reasons.