Bayern Munich win comfortably 2-0 over Mainz — Player grades

After a relatively shaky start, Bayern Munich kicked it into gear and saw out a fairly comfortable 2-0 win over Mainz.

Manager Grade

Jupp Heynckes — B+

With a big DFB Cup game approaching midweek (although against the lowly Paderborn), Heynckes rested many of Bayern’s important players, including striker Robert Lewandowski and Dutchman Arjen Robben. Bayern Munich still came away with three points though, and will be all the more ready for their midweek game thanks to his foresight.

Player Grades

GK, Sven Ulreich — B

Ulreich wasn’t tested too often, but made the necessary saves when called upon. Gave the ball away cheaply in the second half, but immediately made up for it with a fine save.

DEF, Juan Bernat — B-

Worked well with Franck Ribery on the left side of the pitch. Bernat always looks to go forward, and did just that against Mainz. Made a great argument for more playing time with a good display.

DEF, Mats Hummels —  A

Oh, how Bayern have missed Hummels in defense. The German brings a much needed calm presence to his backline. With three tackles, eight clearances and a single interception and blocked shot, Hummels was quick to foil any Mainz attack that came through his area of the pitch.

DEF, Jerome Boateng — B

Not quite as impressive as his central defensive partner, Boateng at times looked a little unfocused or maybe even unfit. He and Hummels are still arguably the best center-back partnership in Europe, but they’ll need to do a little work still as Bayern head into the later rounds of the Champions League.

DEF, Rafinha — C

Often caught out on the right side of defense, Rafinha’s game today showed exactly why Joshua Kimmich is Bayern’s preferred first-choice right-back.

MID, Sebastian Rudy — C+

A decent match for Sebastian Rudy, who hasn’t quite got the gametime he’d like under Jupp Heynckes. Unfortunately for him, he didn’t impress too much with the opportunity given to him today. Nevertheless, his defensive work ensured the Bayern backline weren’t tested too hard by the Mainz attack.

MID, James Rodriguez — A

Another spectacular performance from Bayern’s Colombian superstar. James was once again at the heart of everything good for the Bavarians, his 102 touches a match high. Took his goal with aplomb, expertly firing into the bottom corner after controlling the ball with his chest.

MID, Corentin Tolisso — A-

A great game from midfield from Bayern’s record signing. Tolisso — along with James Rodriguez — boosted Bayern’s attack with his midfield work. His assist for James’ goal was perfectly placed, showing how well the two worked alongside one another on the day. There’s no doubt Coco’s a talented player. Now it’s time for him to consistently prove just that with his work on the pitch.

FWD, Franck Ribery — B-

Bayern’s aging Frenchman scored his team’s first goal with an excellently placed first-time volley. Other than that moment, however, Ribery failed to provide much threat in attack. His pace in particular let him down more often than not.

FWD, Sandro Wagner — C

A rather lackluster match from Bayern’s newest signing. Wagner would have hoped for much more in his first competitive start with die Roten.

FWD, Thomas Muller — C

Muller’s performance was a bit double-sided. Working on the right wing, Muller did well to create chances for his teammates and find space for himself. However, he had a few opportunities to score which he ultimately squandered. He’s slowly getting back to his best under Jupp Heynckes still, but much more was expected from him today in terms of final product.

Next: Jupp Heynckes emphasizes Arturo Vidal's importance at Bayern

Subs

FWD, Robert Lewandowski — C-

Failed to make any sort of positive impact after replacing Sandro Wagner midway through the second half.

MID, David Alaba — N/A

Spent a brief 20-or-so minutes filling in for Sebastian Rudy in defensive midfield, but had little to do in his time on the pitch.

FWD, Kingsley Coman — N/A

Coman came on late with the game done and dusted. Made one good chance for himself, but could only fire his shot into the hands of Robin Zentner.