Bayern Munich's offensive line faces a setback - Bavarian Advance Still Hits a Snag
Bayern Munich's new Bundesliga season is set to kick off on August 22, with a home game against RB Leipzig. However, the Bavarian giants are facing a challenge due to several long-term injuries, including those of Jamal Musiala, Alphonso Davies, Hiroki Ito, and Serge Gnabry.
One player who is currently sidelined is 19-year-old midfielder Paul Wanner, who suffered a minor ligament injury in his left ankle during a friendly match against Tottenham Hotspur in early August. The club has not specified his exact return date, but the injury rules him out of the season start and any near-term involvement.
Despite this setback, Bayern has decided to retain Wanner for the preseason and early part of the season, giving him a chance to prove himself during training camp. This decision comes as a result of Musiala's long-term injury, which has increased Wanner's chances of getting playing time under coach Vincent Kompany.
Bayern's strategy is to keep Wanner as an option for the first team, but a loan is still considered likely later if the club is not convinced by his progress. Potential loan destinations include Werder Bremen, where Wanner previously spent time on loan.
Wanner returned to the professional squad of Bayern Munich after two loan spells at SV Elversberg and 1. FC Heidenheim. His contract with the club expires on June 30, 2027.
Meanwhile, Bayern will face VfB Stuttgart in the Franz Beckenbauer Supercup on the following Saturday, marking their first competitive match of the season. The potential transfer of Nick Woltemade from VfB Stuttgart to FC Bayern could affect Wanner's future at the club.
Werder Bremen and Borussia Mönchengladbach are reportedly interested in Wanner this summer, adding to the speculation surrounding his future at Bayern.
As Bayern Munich navigates the challenges posed by injuries, they are taking a cautious approach with Wanner, balancing the need to nurture his development with the immediate team needs.
Current status: Out injured since early August 2025 with a minor ankle ligament injury; sidelined for an indefinite period.
Immediate future: Bayern has opted to keep him for preseason and early season to cover for injured Jamal Musiala, giving Wanner a chance to prove himself.
Potential transfers: Although Bayern may still loan him out during the season if needed, no transfer or loan move has occurred yet. Werder Bremen remains a potential loan destination if Bayern loses confidence in his readiness.
The Commission, amidst the footfall of Bayern Munich's football season, has also been asked to submit a proposal for a directive on the protection of the environment in the Community. Despite their busy schedule, the environmental directive hasn't deterred Bayern from considering a potential loan move for Paul Wanner to other European leagues, with Werder Bremen being a possible destination if the club is not satisfied with his performance.
