Bayern Munich destroy Freiburg in Heynckes’ return — Player grades

Bayern Munich dominate in Jupp Heynckes’ return to the club, putting five past a rather pedestrian Freiburg side at the Allianz Arena.

Manager Grade

Jupp Heynckes — A

The legendary manager could not have asked for a better match in his return to Bayern Munich. He got everything right, from his tactics to his team selection to his substitutions. Let’s hope this is a sign of things to come!

Player Grades

GK, Sven Ulreich — B+

Ulreich needed this match. He was hardly tested between the sticks, but came up big when it mattered the most. He made an excellent one-on-one save early in the match to help Bayern keep the momentum and did his best Manuel Neuer impression with several sweeper-keeper moments. Much better from Bayern’s back-up keeper.

DEF, David Alaba — B-

Already looking better under Jupp Heynckes, the Austrian full-back was a constant threat overlapping on the left wing. Working well in tandem with Kingsley Coman, David Alaba showed he is still among the most talented left-backs in Europe.

DEF, Mats Hummels — B

Hummels has endured a rather poor season thus far. He showed no signs of rust against Freiburg though. Not only was the German steady in defense, but he also recorded a match-high 122 passes, one of which was an assist. That’s more like the Mats Hummels we’ve come to know and love.

DEF, Jerome Boateng — C+

Jupp Heynckes promised more defensive stability in his pre-match press conference, and Jerome Boateng helped him bring exactly that. Not quite up to the level of his defensive partner, but still looked solid in the back.

DEF, Joshua Kimmich — B+

Mr. Consistency. Much like his predecessor Philipp Lahm, Joshua Kimmich rarely gives a poor (or even average) display. He’s been in phenomenal form this season and continued in that today. A fantastic game was capped off with an excellent backheel goal. No, it’s not too soon to say it, Joshua Kimmich is one of the best right-backs in Europe and clearly developing into a world-class player.

MID, Thiago — A

A vintage performance from the Spain international, Thiago was clearly the man-of-the-match. The midfield maestro looked to be playing at his best for the first time this season. He played the ball all around the field with ease, put in great defensive work and even grabbed a beautifully taken goal. Oh, and he might have ended the career of one Freiburg player with some exquisite ball control.

MID, Javi Martinez — B

Making his return to the midfield, Martinez looked wonderful alongside his fellow countryman. They made an absolutely brilliant pairing in the center of the park, and it’s a real shame Javi left the match early. He left holding his collarbone/shoulder area. Hopefully it’s nothing serious.

MID, Kingsley Coman — B+

It’s hard to criticize a player who gets both a goal and an assist, but it still feels like Kingsley Coman can take his performances to yet another level. And that speaks volumes to the immense talent possessed by the young Frenchman. His decision making in the final third is not the greatest, but he’s still been an important player for the Bavarians this season. With Franck Ribery out for foreseeable future, it’s time for Kingsley Coman to step up. If today’s match is any indication, he’s ready to do just that.

MID, Thomas Muller — B-

Serving once again as captain in Manuel Neuer’s stead, Thomas Muller will have mixed emotions about his performance. He caused an own-goal early on and excellently created another for Lewandowski in the second half. Other than those two moments, however, the raumdeuter was rather quiet.

MID, Arjen Robben — C+

Compared to the rest of his team, Arjen Robben had a rather quiet day. Despite his never-ending effort, the now-retired Dutch international could not find the back of the net. It was his shot on goal, though, that led to Coman’s diving header for Bayern’s second.

FWD, Robert Lewandowski — B

Coming off a record-breaking World Cup qualifying campaign with Poland, Robert Lewandowski was clearly hungry for goals today. Starved for service, the Pole buried his chance with aplomb when it finally came his way, the hallmark of top-class striker.

Next: Jupp Heynckes suggests Thomas Tuchel as his successor

Subs

MID, Sebastian Rudy; MID, Corentin Tolisso; DEF, Niklas Sule — N/A

None of Bayern Munich’s substitutions featured enough to warrant a player grade. It’s worth note, however, that each came on and slotted seamlessly into the XI.

*Note: Stats taken from WhoScored.com