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Bayern Munich put away Bayer Leverkusen in season opener — Player grades

By Benjamin Scott

SINGAPORE - JULY 25: Thomas Muller (2nd R) of FC Bayern Munich celebrates with Robert Lewandowski (R) after scoring a goal during the International Champions Cup match between Chelsea FC and FC Bayern Munich at National Stadium on July 25, 2017 in Singapore. (Photo by Suhaimi Abdullah/Getty Images for ICC)
SINGAPORE - JULY 25: Thomas Muller (2nd R) of FC Bayern Munich celebrates with Robert Lewandowski (R) after scoring a goal during the International Champions Cup match between Chelsea FC and FC Bayern Munich at National Stadium on July 25, 2017 in Singapore. (Photo by Suhaimi Abdullah/Getty Images for ICC) /
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Buoyed by two debut goals, Bayern Munich firmly defeat Bayer Leverkusen to kick-off the ’17-18 Bundesliga season.

Manager Grade

Carlo Ancelotti — B+

In terms of selection, there wasn’t really any other option for the Italian manager. However, it was evident that Carlo Ancelotti motivated his squad before Friday’s match. The hosts kicked-off their Bundesliga campaign clearly energized and hungry for victory. Sometimes a proper motivation can be just as crucial as revolutionary tactics.

Player grades

GK, Sven Ulreich — A

Still deputizing for Manuel Neuer, Ulreich came up big for Bayern Munich in the first-half. He made several impressive saves that kept the momentum on his team’s side.

DEF, David Alaba — B+

Much better from the Austrian than we’ve seen in recent times. His crossing was a drastic improvement over last season, and he finished third in total touches with an impressive 74.

DEF, Mats Hummels — C

Hummels was not entirely convincing throughout the match. Then again, Leverkusen didn’t score until he left the pitch. Perhaps more than anything he just needs time to build chemistry with new teammate Niklas Süle. Left the pitch early with either an abdominal injury or stomach issues. Let’s hope it’s the latter!

DEF, Niklas Süle — B

A wonderful debut from Bayern Munich’s new giant of a center-back. Süle opened the scoring in the 8th minute with a towering header, then remained fairly solid defensively for the remainder of the match. If Süle can keep delivering performances like this one, Jerome Boateng and Javi Martinez will have a hard time breaking back into the first-team once they return from injury.

DEF, Joshua Kimmich — B+

A first-rate performance from Bayern’s new first-choice right-back. Whether going forward or tracking back, Kimmich was completely solid. Sound familiar?

MID, Arturo Vidal — A

Bayern’s “Warrior” lived up to his well-earned nickname against his former club. The Chilean ran tirelessly, expertly assisted Tolisso for Die Roten’s second and finished the game with a match-high nine total tackles. Not bad from Arturo Vidal. Not bad at all.

MID, Sebastian Rudy — B-

In typical fashion, Sebastin Rudy had a solid — if not spectacular — game at his new club. His pinpoint delivery set-up fellow ex-Hoffenheim star Niklas Süle’s goal, and his defensive contribution ensured Bayern’s leaky backline had a good bit of midfield cover.

MID, Corentin Tolisso — A

If Bayern’s recent matches have belonged to Sebastian Rudy, then this one was all Coco’s. The young Frenchman enjoyed a terrific Bundesliga debut with his new club, and definitely justified his price tag. His debut goal will steal all the headlines, but the greatness of his performance goes much deeper than that. Tolisso enjoyed more touches and played more passes than any other player on the pitch. A well-rounded display from a well-rounded player.

FWD, Franck Ribery — B-

Ribery was not quite up to his creative best on the day, but still an important part of Bayern’s victory. Terrorized the left flank before making way for another French left winger in Kingsley Coman.

FWD, Robert Lewandowski — B-

Lewandowski makes the grade for his goal, but only just. The Pole was, at times, sloppy in possession and wasted his chances. But he did show a few flashes of exactly what makes him the best number nine in Europe.

FWD, Thomas Muller — C+

After an excellent pre-season, many expected that Muller would get on the score sheet. However, the raumdeuter enjoyed a relatively quiet (if not wet) evening at the Allianz Arena. Made intelligent runs and distributed the ball well, but could not grab himself a goal.

Next: Three Bayern Munich stars nominated for prestigious award

Subs

FWD, Arjen Robben (60′) — B-

As soon as Robben entered the pitch it was evident that the Dutch winger was hungry for a goal. He brought some much needed energy into Bayern’s squad and was nearly awarded for his fantastic effort.

DEF, Rafinha (61′) — C

The Brazilian full-back did hardly anything worth note, other than committing two unnecessary fouls.

FWD, Kingsley Coman (76′) — C+

Like Robben, Coman brought energy and pace into Bayern’s squad but could not capitalize on the various opportunities he created for himself.

*Note: Unless otherwise specified, stats taken from WhoScored.com.