Takeaways as Bayern Munich dominate Fortuna Dusseldorf

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Lucas Hernandez, Benjamin Pavard, Bayern Munich. (Photo by Roland Krivec/DeFodi Images via Getty Images) /

Defensive stability for Bayern Munich

At the beginning of the season, one will not believe that Die Roten’s most consistent back four will comprise Pavard and Davies as full-backs while David Alaba will play as center-back. However, things have panned out in the most unthinkable way as Rekordmeister looks much better defensive unit with every passing game. Davies and Pavard have locked down the full-back positions, while Alaba has been indispensable in the center-back role. Even Lucas Hernandez got a rare start on Saturday and looked good throughout the first half.

What makes this Bayern defense so good is how they allow each other to push forward and cover for that player. If Hernandez made a run forward from center back, Alaba would drop back, and one of the full-backs would also drop to offer cover. However, the problem opposing teams have with this is that every one of Bayern’s defenders is capable of having the ball at their feet and making a run into the midfield. Jerome Boateng has also stepped up under Flick, executing the duties of a ball-playing center-back to perfection.

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The ball-playing ability of defenders helps Die Roten to build direct attacks from the back. The complete defensive unit is well supported by the best goalkeeper in the world, Manuel Neuer. The German has been back to his best as a sweeper-keeper. He comes off the line quickly to regain possession and bypass midfield with his pinpoint accurate long passing.

It is quite unfortunate that Hernandez had to leave the match at halftime with another injury, but with the quality of the depth this team has in center-back position and with how well the unit has been playing, this shouldn’t be an issue in the short term. Every Bayern fan wants to see the record signing succeed and have a long, fruitful career in Munich.