Bayern Munich: Takeaways from convincing result against FC Koln
Bayern Munich got back to winning ways in the Bundesliga on Saturday with an emphatic 5-1 win against FC Koln at Allianz Arena. On the back of this victory, Die Roten maintain three points lead at the top of the table.
The German Champions delivered a convincing performance in the first half, controlling the tempo of the game and conceding almost zero chances to Koln. Despite scoring more goals in the second half, the game was too frantic for Bayern’s liking. Koln was getting encouragement in the final third as Die Roten’s defense committed an error to give them a lifeline early in the second half. From a tale of two halves on Saturday, here are some key takeaways.
Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting shines on the left flank
Hansi Flick’s experiment to play Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting in the number ten role came to an end against Lazio on Tuesday. The Cameroonian forward was back in the team on Saturday, but he was deployed on the left side of the front three.
Choupo-Moting enjoyed his best performance in the Bayern shirt in this new role. He worked hard to help the team defensively and also held the ball in the half-space on the left flank. The former PSG forward was not holding the width like Kingsley Coman, but he was a nuisance for Koln due to his physicality and runs. He scored a good goal to give the lead to Die Roten in the first half, providing a very good option for Flick on the flanks.
Lucas Hernandez keeps giving good selection headache to Hansi Flick
It has not been a straightforward campaign for Lucas Hernandez after a difficult debut campaign in Bavaria. The Frenchman has delivered good performances whenever he has been called upon in the starting XI, but Flick has stuck with the center-back pairing of Jerome Boateng and David Alaba in the defense. Meanwhile, Alphonso Davies has been preferred in the left-back position.
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Hernandez has not let disappointments affect his performances. He continues to give good selection headache to the German manager. The Frenchman came on in the 72nd minute against Koln and left a strong mark in the game by getting the assist for the important fourth goal.
The French international looked defensively solid and more adventurous in the final third. The former Atletico Madrid defender is making the most of limited opportunities to break into the starting XI. With games coming thick and fast, Hernandez’s good performances will eventually be rewarded.
Serge Gnabry gets much-needed boost to his confidence
Serge Gnabry has endured a dip in form this season after two outstanding seasons with Die Roten. He started the season on fire with a hattrick against Schalke, but slowly and steadily, goals have dried for the German winger. Moreover, few minor injuries have also hampered his campaign.
Next. Player ratings from Bayern's convincing win against Koln. dark
After a minor injury, Gnabry returned to action on Saturday and grabbed a brace against Koln. Both goals should be a welcome boost to Gnabry’s confidence. He needs to kick on and make up for the lost time by delivering good performances in the final third of the season. Maybe this brace could be the turning point of his inconsistent season.