Why FC Bayern Plays on Fridays (Surprisingly Often)
A Frustrating Schedule for the Bundesliga Champions
You might be scratching your head, wondering why Europe's top football club, FC Bayern, is playing on Fridays yet again. After a 4-0 victory against Werder Bremen on the fourth matchday, the team faced Leverkusen on another Friday (Matchday 25) before taking on 1. FC Köln tonight (20:30/DAZN). But, why such frequent Friday fixtures?
The League's Quirks and Top Clubs' Clashes
One reason for Bayern's Friday appearances lies in the UEFA Conference League and Europa League competitions featuring Frankfurt, Freiburg, and Leverkusen. When these clubs participate in weekend games on Saturday evening (6.30 pm) or Sunday, they leave Bayern with limited league scheduling options. Consequently, Bayern finds itself set to play against top opponents on Friday evenings, as with tonight's match against Köln on DAZN.
Coach Tuchel's Concerns Over the Tough Schedule
Thomas Tuchel, Bayern's 50-year-old coach, isn't shy about voicing his concerns over the challenging calendar. In a recent press conference, Tuchel sounded the alarm, expressing concern about the Bayern superstars' heavy workload, both physically and mentally. Fresh from international matches, many players are drained, both mentally and emotionally, as they juggle lengthy hours of travel via hotels, planes, and buses.
Consequences for Top Players and the Game
In an ideal world, top players should be able to showcase their skills to football enthusiasts, infusing games with joy and passion. However, the demanding calendar threatens to push top-tier players beyond their limits, which could negatively impact the overall game experience. Tuchel emphasized the necessity of ensuring the game is in the best interest of the players, so they can offer their best performances.
Adapting to the Challenge, One Day at a Time
To minimize exhaustion and illness before games, the team only flew to Cologne on Friday, giving the players an extra night at home. Such measures can boost morale and ensure the players face matchday with robust spirits and determination. Nevertheless, Tuchel's decision to travel late has its risks, as inexperienced behaviors, such as the disappointing cup exit in Saarbrücken (1:2), have demonstrated.
A Hefty Schedule Ahead
Bayern could face another Friday night game after international matches this season, considering their 2-2 draw against Leverkusen in Matchday 15. The upcoming challenge against Köln will be especially interesting, given that the Bundesliga has started seeing some unexpected results.
The Impact of Unfavorable Scheduling on Other Teams
Bayern isn't alone in facing this scheduling challenge. As an example, Borussia Dortmund also ended up playing Werder Bremen on a Friday (Matchday 23) after a DFB trip to the USA. Liverpool, the English Premier League giants, are furious about playing against Manchester City on Saturday, 1.30 pm, which they view as an inopportune matchup for their stars. Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp (56) slammed the schedulers, accusing them of having no "feeling for soccer!"
Final Thoughts
While FC Bayern isn't playing on more than a few Fridays during this Bundesliga season, the scheduling has triggered stark concerns within the team. Thomas Tuchel and other coaches recognize and share these concerns, hoping for more accommodating scheduling to ensure top teams can give their all while offering an exhilarating game experience.
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