Match Preview: Bayern Munich play away against FC Koln in Bundesliga
Predicted XI for Bayern Munich
Hansi Flick has been clever with his team selection in the last couple of weeks. He has been managing the workload of senior players efficiently to avoid injuries due to fatigue. However, Manuel Neuer is unlikely to get a rest on Saturday as he remains hungry to play every game.
In the central defense, Jerome Boateng will return and partner Niklas Sule. Since David Alaba has played in the last two games, he is likely to be on the bench against FC Koln. Bouna Sarr will replace Benjamin Pavard on the right flank, while Flick may try Pavard in the left-back position to give Lucas Hernandez a breather.
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Goretzka is likely to continue in the midfield as Kimmich is a doubt for this game. The German midfielder has been versatile this season, flourishing as number six and eight. Marc Roca may finally get a chance to make his Bundesliga debut as Flick has been focussing on slowly integrating him into the senior team.
Leroy Sane was an unused substitute in Moscow, so he is likely to get a start on Saturday. The German winger will play on the right flank, while Serge Gnabry will occupy the left flank. Thomas Muller was substituted early in Moscow to recover as he had to play against Koln on Saturday in the number ten role. Robert Lewandowski may also start from the bench, allowing Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting to get his first start in the Bundesliga for Bayern.
"Neuer Sarr-Sule-Boateng-Pavard Roca-Goretzka Sane-Muller-Gnabry Choupo Moting"