Lucas Hernandez getting his first start after injury
Bayern’s biggest struggle in the Bundesliga has been the lack of stability at the back. The defending champions conceded poor goals in the first half of the season, which eventually harmed the outcome of the game.
During the winter break, Flick has done tactical work to improve the team’s defense. They are conceding a few clear-cut chances and also avoiding individual errors in the back four. These positives about defense have largely been a by-product of consistency in the personnel of the defensive setup.
However, Flick has a big decision to make as club’s record signing- Lucas Hernandez is now completely fit to play. He was used as a substitute in the last three games. Jerome Boateng‘s suspension may force Flick to use Hernandez in central defense.
Flick can just move Pavard in central defense since Odriozola is set to start. The long term benefits will be achieved if the German manager opts for a trickier option and pairs up Hernandez with David Alaba in the back four. Injuries have been stopping Hernandez to become a regular starter for Die Roten, so Friday’s game can be an ideal springboard to kickstart his stop-start season.