Bayern Munich made light work of FC Köln in the DFB-Pokal, winning 4-1 to be the outright benchmark for best start to the season since the 1992/93 team of AC Milan. Up next is a Bundesliga showdown against Bayer Leverkusen. Although the latter has started their season roughly, they seem to have sorted themselves out. Bayern has won all their matches so far this season and they’re definitely in no mood to give up three points, so they’ll aim for a win here.
The team that played against Köln is near enough the champagne XI, bar Jonas Urbig who deputized for Manuel Neuer in the Pokal owing to his suspension. With that said, here’s how Bayern could line up against Leverkusen.
Bog standard best possible starting XI. Manuel Neuer in goal; Konrad Laimer, Jonathan Tah, Dayot Upamecano, and Sacha Boey in defense; Joshua Kimmich and Aleksandar Pavlović in the pivot; and Luis Díaz, Serge Gnabry, Michael Olise supporting Harry Kane up front.
While it is true that there are growing concerns about players like Kane, Olise, and Díaz being overplayed, Bayern really can’t afford to bench any of them. November is going to be a difficult month for the Bavarians, considering they play Paris Saint-Germain next week and then Arsenal three matches after that.
While you’re waiting for the match, do consider listening to our Preview Show! Listen to it below or on Spotify.
Also, be sure to stay tuned to Bavarian Podcast Works for all of your up to date coverage on Bayern Munich and Germany. Check us out on Patreon and follow us on Twitter @BavarianFBWorks and @BavarianPodcast.
