Five Bayern Munich Players that need to Improve in the Ruckrunde

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MUNICH, GERMANY – DECEMBER 14: Thiago Alcantara of FC Bayern Muenchen runs with the ball during the Bundesliga match between FC Bayern Muenchen and SV Werder Bremen at Allianz Arena on December 14, 2019, in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Bongarts/Getty Images) /

Thiago Alcantara

Thiago is a very curious player for Bayern Munich. Just two years ago, he was the unquestioned best midfielder for Bayern Munich performing more consistently than the likes of Arturo Vidal and Corentin Tolisso, but ever since Niko Kovac took over and moved him to a more defensive role, he has fallen from that perch. He still is an incredible midfielder with world-class technique but has been susceptible to mental lapses that lead to chances for the opposition.

His lack of mental sharpness and poor decision making is the issue rather than his work ethic. When on the field, Thiago works hard and always wants the ball, but his decision making leaves much to be desired. He regularly gets caught in possession, which leads to counter attacks and potentially goals. His aggressiveness in the final third is also less than impressive. No goals and only two assists in 22 appearances is very poor. If Bayern is to make a Champions League run with him in the lineup, then that must be improved.

To get back to being the undisputed number one midfielder, Thiago has to go back to being the man that got him there in the first place. A lethal passer, yes, but also someone who can completely unlock a defensive line and link up with the forwards creating many chances. This season Thiago has not been that, allowing other players to rise in the depth chart. Whether it’s his current position or just a lack of mental sharpness, Thiago needs to find his form and aggression again if Bayern is to return to the European elite.