FC Bayern's improv theatre presents a challenge to Vincent Kompany, as he aims to untangle a complex defensive conundrum
FC Bayern Munich Facing Injury Crisis Ahead of TSG Hoffenheim Clash
FC Bayern Munich is bracing for a challenging encounter against TSG Hoffenheim, with several key players sidelined due to injuries. One of the most significant absences will be that of Josip Stanisic, who sustained a partial injury to the inner band during the game against FC Chelsea. The club has announced that Stanisic will be out for an unspecified period.
Vincent Kompany, Bayern's manager, is forced to improvise for the defense. Raphael Guerreiro, who has been a regular starter at left-back, is also out due to an injury sustained against Hamburger SV. Guerreiro will only travel to the TSG game as a possible emergency substitute on the bench, having not trained all week.
Kompany will presumably field Raphael Guerreiro as the left defender against TSG Hoffenheim, but the manager admitted that they will see if he can play this week or possibly next. In the meantime, Sacha Boey, who was long considered a misfit, will be given another chance as a right-back. Boey impressed against Chelsea, displaying tenacity in duels and security in passing.
Kompany expects Josip Stanisic to return after the next international break, around mid-October. The manager also announced that Alphonso Davies and Hiroki Ito are long-term injured.
Despite the injury crisis, Kompany does not plan to ban the players from the Oktoberfest. The manager trusts his players to live their lives normally so they can perform at their best.
Konrad Laimer, a midfielder by trade, has secured his place in Bayern's star ensemble due to his running performances and iron will. Laimer has been playing as a right-back, often having to switch sides in the middle of the open sea due to Bayern's personnel shortage. Laimer has been very stable and very flexible for Bayern, solving a lot with his intensity and delivering on both sides.
TSG Hoffenheim, who narrowly avoided relegation last season, are currently sixth after three games. Kompany considers the game against TSG Hoffenheim to be a "dangerous game". The rehab professionals' warm-up and substitute goalkeepers' practice were observed by Kompany at the club's training facility on Thursday.
As Bayern prepares to face TSG Hoffenheim, the team will rely on the resilience and adaptability of its players to overcome the current injury crisis and secure another victory.
