The Bundesliga is finally back! The new season of the much awaited German footballing league is set to kick off tomorrow. In the very first match of the 2017-18 season, Bayern Munich will host Bayer Leverkusen in the Allianz Arena. Bayern will look to start their journey of clinching their sixth consecutive title, on a good note. Whereas, Bayer Leverkusen, about to embark on a new journey under new Heiko Herrlich, will seek retribution following a terrible season. Here is the Bayern Munich predicted lineup for their opening day clash against Leverkusen.
Goalkeeper: First choice keeper Manuel Neuer has been ruled out for the clash against Leverkusen but should return on MD2 against Werder Bremen. Deputy keeper Sven Ulreich will take his place between the sticks.
Right Back: Joshua Kimmich has taken to the right back role with aplomb. The youngster has featured as a RB for Bayern’s last two competitive games so far. He is expected to keep his place in the side, featuring as a right back.
Centre Back(R): Javi Martinez has also been ruled out due to injury. The Spanish centre back has been pretty poor in the lead up to the new season. Mats Hummels will shift in as a right sided center back, in place of Javi Martinez.
Centre Back(L): Even though players like Javi Martinez and Jerome Boateng are out injured, Bayern were wise to spill the money on Niklas Sule. The former Hoffenheim defender has looked very promising in their pre-season preparations. He will partner Mats Hummels in the centre of the defence.
Left Back: David Alaba will start ahead of Rafinha. As we expect, David Alaba’s pace will be a handful against the Leverkusen defensive line. While his set piece abilities are sure to cause trouble for the opposition.
Central Defensive Midfielder: Sebastian Rudy. The former Hoffenheim midfielder has been faultless playing for Bayern in the pre-season and beyond. The composure and calmness he brings into the play is just amazing. He probably won’t get the starting position so easily when Thiago returns from injury but it will be a joy to see him against Leverkusen.
Central Midfielder: Despite all the transfer speculation surrounding Arturo Vidal, we expect the Chilean to be starting in the central zone for Bayern. His presence will be vital considering the opponent already having some tough physical presence in the shape of Dominik Kohr and the Bender brothers.
Central Midfielder: New signing Corentin Tolisso will start alongside Vidal in midfield. Unlike the Chilean, he will be tasked with more of the offensive work for his team. Tolisso looked pretty good in the win over Chemnitzer, where he linked up beautifully to provide an assist for Robert Lewandowski.
Right Wing: Arjen Robben was given a run-out against Chemnitzer last week. Expect the Dutchman to start against Leverkusen on the right wing. Despite Coman’s glittering performance against Chemnitzer, coach Carlo Ancelotti would want to make sure that Robben is still a vital part of the team.
Left Wing: Franck Ribery is a sure starter against Leverkusen. The Frenchman has been quite good in pre-season preparations. He remains a vital part of Bayern’s offence. Kingsley Coman will be another option for Carlo Ancelotti but we expect the youngster to be subbed on later in the game.
Striker: There are a few question marks regarding Robert Lewandowski‘s fitness, and although he will probably start as the lone striker, we wouldn’t ignore Thomas Muller‘s chance of starting the game, in case Lewandowski fails to make it on time.
