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Five things to watch as Bayern Munich head into new season

By Benjamin Scott

SINGAPORE - JULY 27: Thomas Muller
SINGAPORE - JULY 27: Thomas Muller /
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LONDON, ENGLAND – MARCH 07: Arjen Robben of FC Bayern Muenchen celebrates with Franck Ribery of FC Bayern Muenchen as he scores their second goal during the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 second leg match between Arsenal FC and FC Bayern Muenchen at Emirates Stadium on March 7, 2017 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – MARCH 07: Arjen Robben of FC Bayern Muenchen celebrates with Franck Ribery of FC Bayern Muenchen as he scores their second goal during the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 second leg match between Arsenal FC and FC Bayern Muenchen at Emirates Stadium on March 7, 2017 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images) /

5) Robbery is nearing its end

A change of guard is in order. Just as last season marked the end of professional soccer for two legends of the game in Xabi Alonso and Philipp Lahm, so too may this season for Franck Ribery and Arjen Robben.

The iconic “Robbery” duo has been a staple of Bayern Munich’s squad for the better part of a decade. They’ve terrorized opposition defenses for years on end, becoming two of the most feared attacking players in Europe.

However, the end is in sight for Bayern’s beloved wingers. While they’re both still capable of beating any defender on their day, age is beginning to take its toll, and both Robben and Ribery are in the twilight of their careers.

It’s more obvious for Franck Ribery. The Frenchman simply can’t produce at the same level that saw him land a top three spot in the 2013 Ballon d’Or voting. Ironically enough, its actually Arjen Robben who has mentioned the possibility of retirement. The Dutchman has been less affected by age than his counterpart, but nevertheless knows the end of his playing career is in sight.

Although it will be tough to see the pair go, its something that has to happen. And Bayern Munich must prepare for it; they must learn how to operate without their legendary wingers. That means Carlo Ancelotti has to leave one or both of them out of his starting eleven more often than not and instead field their potential replacements.

Next: Bayern Munich are not selling Renato Sanches this summer

Age is inevitable. Players don’t last forever and clubs have to find a way to operate without them. This could be the final season for both of Bayern’s aged wingers. The days of “Robbery” are coming to an end; enjoy them while you can.