FC Bayern Munich are managing the workload of Alphonso Davies
Hansi Flick explains the reason behind Alphonso Davies’ absence from the starting XI for FC Bayern Munich.
Apart from the defeat away at Hoffenheim, it has been a perfect start to the new season for FC Bayern Munich. The German Champions have already won two trophies this season and could add four more to the tally by the end of the campaign.
Hansi Flick has been rotating his team consistently this season since games are coming thick and fast. This campaign is unique since it started late, but it is likely to finish in May. In such strange circumstances, managers will have to manage the workload of the squad.
Bayern fans have been puzzled to see Alphonso Davies start very few games this season. The Canadian teenager was a regular member of the treble-winning team. Lucas Hernandez has regularly featured in the left-back position.
Speaking to media (via Buli News) on Saturday, Flick explained the reason behind giving Davies less playing time this season. The German manager insisted that Davies needs more time to get his rhythm due to lack of pre-season this year.
"“Lucas Hernandez has put in very stable performances and is playing at a very good level. He does us good with his aggressiveness.”“For a young player like Alphonso Davies, it’s not easy due to the many games last season and the short pre-season. It’s important that he gets back on track and can bring his strengths back into play. But to do so, he needs a certain fitness and mental freshness.”"
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Davies had endured a similar start to the season last year, but he was considered as a forward in the squad. During an injury crisis in October, Niko Kovac decided to deploy Davies as left-back in the first team. The Canadian winger grabbed this opportunity with both hands and excelled in this position.
In a treble-winning campaign, Davies went on to play 42 games across all competitions. Along with getting regular playing time, Davies also polished the rough edges of his game. There is still scope for improvement, but the sky is the limit for the teenager. Bayern also decided to reward his performances by handing him a new contract in April. (Stats courtesy: Transfermarkt)
Despite all the hype surrounding Davies’ performances, fans need to understand that Davies is still 19. Managing his workload is important to have a long and successful career for Davies. Playing him consistently might burn him out. Moreover, there are a lot of games to play this season, so Davies will surely get a lot of opportunities.
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Flick will have to manage other young players of the squad in the same way. The fatigue of players is going to increase as the season progresses since there are multiple international breaks. Till now, the club has perfectly managed the workload of Davies. Moreover, time out for Davies will also help in giving Hernandez much needed playing time to get him back to his best. It is a win-win situation for everyone.