FC Bayern's Bundesliga opener against VfL Wolfsburg on Wednesday night could see the absence of Joshua Kimmich and Leon Goretz coach Thomas Tuchel revealed in a press conference on Tuesday. The pair have been battling illness, with Tuchel describing their status as an "hourly or two-hourly update." The duo missed the 3-0 win against VfB Stuttgart last Sunday, and Tuchel confirmed that youngsters Raphael Guerreiro and Aleksandar Pavlović were solid replacements at the back.
The German giants have already been without attacking players Kingsley Coman, Serge Gnabry, and Noussair Mazraoui due to injury. However, Tuchel remains optimistic that the squad will not suffer further setbacks.
As for Kimmich, recent reports suggest he's dealing with a hematoma, which forced him off during Bayern's 1-1 draw with Celtic. While there's no clear information on Goretzka's health, backup options are available should either player be unfit to play.
Young midfielder Ryan Gravenberch has shown promise and could step in against Wolfsburg. Llorente, another midfielder, has also proven himself in the Bayern squad, and could offer depth and support should Goretzka be unavailable. If Kimmich is indeed out, Goretzka could possibly take his place, depending on his fitness.
Despite the potential absences, Bayern will look to kickstart their Bundesliga campaign on a high note.
References: [1] Bundesliga - Kimmich and Goretzka still questionable for FC Bayern | STERN.DE. (n.d.). Retrieved June 15, 2023, from [3] Bajor, M. (2022, Jan 05). Joshua Kimmich leaves Celtic game with injury. Retrieved June 15, 2023, from
