Bayern Munich: Four critical factors in the Champions League

Bayern Munich players celebrating against Bayer Leverkusen. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
Bayern Munich players celebrating against Bayer Leverkusen. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images) /
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Hansi Flick and Joshua Kimmich, Bayern Munich. (Photo by Max Maiwald/DeFodi Images via Getty Images)
Hansi Flick and Joshua Kimmich, Bayern Munich. (Photo by Max Maiwald/DeFodi Images via Getty Images) /

Balance in the midfield for Bayern Munich

The fate of big games is often decided in the midfield. Die Roten dominated Chelsea’s midfield from the word go against Chelsea in February. Joshua Kimmich was sitting at the base of midfield, while Thiago Alcantara dictated the tempo of the game. Thomas Muller created havoc in the final third when he was deployed in the number ten role.

Since the restart, Flick developed another strong midfield partnership by pairing Kimmich with Goretzka when Thiago was on the sidelines due to injury. Both German midfielders complemented each other well, allowing them to dominate physical duels and control the flow of the game.

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Pavard’s injury may force Flick to play safely and move Kimmich back in defence. This move will force him to find balance in the midfield that will help them to dominate against top clubs in Europe. Thiago and Corentin Tolisso have completely recovered from injuries, so there will be no dearth of options in midfield for him. Mickael Cuisance also ended the Bundesliga strongly, so he also remains a good option.

Flick is blessed with having different profiles of midfielders to his disposal. It is now up to him to find the right balance in the centre of the park that will give the team to impose themselves in the knockout games. Defence provides the foundation while midfield provides the impetus to do well in big European games. Finding a balance in the midfield is a big step in the right direction to bring the trophy back to Allianz Arena.