Bayern Munich: Three key battles against PSG in CL final

Joshua Kimmich vs Neymar Jr.

After the shaky performance against Lyon, Hansi Flick might make one change in the midfield. Thiago Alcantara could be sacrificed for more defensive solidity in the center of the park. Joshua Kimmich can be moved back in the midfield since Pavard is completely fit now.

Kimmich will come up against Neymar if he is given the role of shielding the back four. The Brazilian has been playing as false nine or number ten in the last two knockout games, occupying pockets of spaces between the lines. However, Neymar also drops deep to collect the ball and progress the play through his mesmerizing dribbling.

The German midfielder will have to be accurate with his tackles and interceptions. A slight delay can allow Neymar to breeze past him and expose the back four. The Brazilian is the chief creator for Paris-Saint Germain. The ball sticks to his feet like a magnet when he is in full flow. He can go past numerous players and then spot the run of wide players with pinpoint through balls.

Neymar is by far the biggest attacking threat in this PSG side. Kimmich has delivered in the midfield against big clubs this season, but Sunday’s tussle against Neymar is completely a different ball game. If he manages to keep the Brazilian quiet, then Die Roten will take a major step towards lifting their sixth Champions League title.