The starting XI for Bayern Munich could see some big changes in the game against Bayer Leverkusen next week after suffering defeat against Augsburg last weekend. Julian Nagelsmann will be looking to find solutions for Die Roten’s problems. He could make some changes to the composition of the lineup to get the team out of the current mini-crisis.
The upcoming few games could be a big chance for fringe players that have struggled for consistent playing time this season. Ryan Gravenberch could be one of the players that could benefit in the coming weeks if Nagelsmann decides to ring the changes in the midfield.
The Dutch midfielder has struggled for game time at Die Roten since arriving from Ajax in the summer. Gravenberch rejected interest from Manchester United to join Bayern since he was convinced with the project in Bavaria. Die Roten sealed a move for Gravenberch in mid-June to make sure he is integrated into the new environment during pre-season. However, it has been a rocky start to his time in Bavaria.
Gravenberch is yet to start a Bundesliga game this season. The Dutch midfielder was left out of the Netherlands squad in the current international break due to a lack of game time in Munich. While talking to ESPN (via EuropeanLad), Gravenberch is frustrated with his situation, but he is hoping for more playing time after the international break.
"“To be honest, yes I am (disappointed). You want to play but the manager is picking other players. I have to accept it but it’s difficult. I was hoping for more minutes but I have to stay calm.”"
The Dutch midfielder has accumulated 115 minutes for Die Roten across all competitions. Nagelsmann has preferred the midfield pairing of Joshua Kimmich and Marcel Sabitzer at the start of the season. Kimmich and Sabitzer have done a good job in the midfield this season, so it was difficult for Nagelsmann to drop one of them. (Stats courtesy: Whoscored)
Leon Goretzka made his first start of the season against Augsburg after impressing against Barcelona in the Champions League. Gravenberch didn’t come off the bench in this game as Nagelsmann preferred Sabitzer to make a change in the midfield.
The games will come thick and fast in October, so Nagelsmann is bound to make changes. Gravenberch has been neat and tidy on the ball, but he will have to be more adventurous on the ball to get more game time. He needs to play regularly more to stand a chance of playing in the World Cup for the Netherlands later this year.
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Gravenberch will be spending the international break with the U-21 squad of the Netherlands. A couple of good performances with U-21 will give Ryan Gravenberch much-needed momentum ahead of a busy schedule at Bayern Munich.