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Bayern Munich squad preview 2023-24: Defense

By Valenton Wallace

Bayern Munich squad during presentation at Allianz Arena. (Photo by CHRISTOF STACHE/AFP via Getty Images)
Bayern Munich squad during presentation at Allianz Arena. (Photo by CHRISTOF STACHE/AFP via Getty Images) /
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Bayern Munich squad during presentation at Allianz Arena.
Bayern Munich squad during presentation at Allianz Arena. (Photo by CHRISTOF STACHE/AFP via Getty Images) /

Since the rather unceremonious sacking of Julian Nagelsmann this March, new coach Thomas Tuchel has been in what can be considered a conflicting position as head coach of Bayern Munich. The German coach was brought in for immediate success, but he could only manage to clinch the  Bundesliga by narrowest of margins.

On one hand, following disappointing results in both the DFL Pokal and the Champions League Tuchel found himself in the proverbial hot seat. Notwithstanding Jamal Musiala’s brilliant 89th-minute winner against FC Koln on matchday 34; it was only thanks to a meltdown by Dortmund, at home, on the final day of the season against Mainz, that Bayern managed to win the 2023 Bundesliga title on goal difference. One can only speculate on where Tuchel would be right now had Dortmund displayed more resolve on the final day of the season.

On the other hand, since the additional dismissals of former CEO Oliver Kahn and former Sporting Director Hasan Salihamidzic at the end of last season, Tuchel has understandably gained more influence in the decision-making process at Bayern for the forthcoming season.

Now as someone who has never been the biggest fan of Thomas Tuchel, I must say that I have the utmost respect for him both as a coach and human being because when he gets it right the results speak for themselves. Chelsea’s 2021 Champions League success is a fine example. Ahead of the big season in Munich, let us focus on Tuchel’s preferred starting XI and squad. We will kick off this series with the defense.