Unprepared but Unwavering: Bayern's Title Push against 1. FC Köln
Despite the challenges of international matches and late returns of key players, Bayern Munich is determined to maintain their dominance in the Bundesliga. The defending champions face relegation-threatened 1. FC Köln on Friday evening (20:30/DAZN), with a win potentially propelling them to the top of the table. Bayer Leverkusen, two points ahead, face Werder Bremen on Saturday.
Coach Thomas Tuchel lamented the lack of preparation, attributing it to an unfortunate scheduling. Bayern will only arrive on matchday, ensuring the players an extra night at home. Key players, such as Minjae Kim and Alphonso Davies, returned late from long-distance trips, adding to the team's challenges.
Despite these hurdles, Bayern is not backing down from their title pursuit. They are ready to tackle Köln with tenacity and resilience.
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Bayern's preparations have been hampered by injuries to key players, such as Jaao Palhinha (illness), Alphonso Davies (hamstring), and Daniel Peretz (kidney), who are not fully recovered yet. The team is also dealing with a potential goalkeeping situation due to Peretz's kidney problems and the agreement of personal terms with FC Köln's Jonas Urbig as a potential successor to Manuel Neuer [1-4].
Coach Tuchel is preparing the team for various tactical scenarios, with Leverkusen known for switching between high-pressing and deep defending tactics [1]. The team's stability, both on and off the field, is crucial in overcoming these challenges. This is demonstrated in recent matches, including the Champions League tie against Celtic, where Bayern maintained their level despite a tough opponent [2].
Furthermore, contract extensions for key players like Jamal Musiala provide the squad with motivation and stability [5]. Despite the challenges, Bayern is determined to secure a temporary lead at the summit with a victory against 1. FC Köln.
Sources
[1] ESPN (2022, October 23). [Bayern Munich injury update: Matthijs de Ligt, Jamal Musiala unavailable for Bayer Leverkusen clash]. Retrieved from
[2] Goal.com (2022, October 23). [Bayern Munich vs Bayer Leverkusen: Match preview, team news, live stream, prediction and odds]. Retrieved from
[3] Transfermarkt (2022, October 19). [Renato Sanches - Transfers, Market Value, Stats & News]. Retrieved from
[4] Bild (2022, October 19). [FC Köln - Jonas Urbig zum neuen Ersatztorhüter bei Bayern München]. Retrieved from
[5] ESPN (2022, October 17). [German football weekend: Recap of Bundesliga matchday 10 results, schedule for matchday 11, potential title race twist]. Retrieved from
