Bayern Munich: Three key battles to watch out against Barcelona

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Thomas Muller, Bayern Munich. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images) /

Thomas Muller vs Sergio Busquets

Over the years, Barcelona has enjoyed a lot of success in Europe due to a phenomenal midfield setup. Sergio Busquets is the only member left in the current squad from that midfield setup since Xavi Hernandez and Andreas Iniesta left the club a few years ago. Busquets is on the wrong side of 30 now, but he still helps Barcelona to dictate midfield.

The Spanish midfielder sits in front of the defense and provides the base for other explosive players to flourish in the final third. He can play out from danger by playing pinpoint passes. The Spaniard’s decision making on the ball is right on most occasions, helping Barcelona to tire opposition by retaining the ball.

Thomas Muller will be the important player in Flick’s setup that can help in unsettling Busquets and break Barcelona’s rhythm in midfield. The German international has enjoyed a terrific season in the number ten role due to his intense pressing and creative passing. If he manages to win the ball higher up the pitch consistently by dispossessing Busquets, then Die Roten will have a lot of chances in the final third.

Muller and Busquets are the MVPs of their respective teams, playing in two different positions. However, they will be occupying the same positions on the pitch against each other. Whoever wins this duel on Friday will set the foundation for the victory for their respective team.