Bayern Munich Squad Preview 2023/24: Attack

Options to lead the attack

The Bavarian attack with England’s captain, Harry Kane, and all-time record goal scorer, as its focal point should bring a renewed vigour and efficiency in the final third for Die Roten; the kind that has been missing since the departure of Robert Lewandowski.

It goes without saying that Kane is a multifaceted world-class striker. A natural goal scorer, proficient with either foot and in the air while functioning as a classic number nine. He is also capable of bringing other forwards into the attack with his outstanding hold-up play, by releasing them either with passes after controlling the ball, or from one-time passes and flicks before defenders can react.

Not known as a speed merchant, he makes up for any shortage in that area with the speed of thought and tactical nous along with a keen understanding of angles that have seen him bend some of his runs to lethal effect. Being a model professional who takes proper care of himself, even at age 30, barring injury, there is little reason to believe that in four years’ time, Kane won’t be as evergreen as his Polish predecessor.

A healthy Kane is undoubtedly key to Bayern’s success this season. Should he be unable to suit up for any reason though, the German champions have decent backup options in the form of veteran Cameroon international Jean-Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting and French youngster Mathys Tel. However, neither one of the two is capable of impacting the game in the manner that Kane does.

Fortunately for Tel and Choupo-Moting, they can also play as a second striker or a wide player. Choupo-Moting is a well-seasoned professional and reliable squad player, so, as things currently stand, either one or both could see playing time in other positions over the course of the season should the need arise. If there is an injury crisis in the number nine role, Thomas Muller and Serge Gnabry can also lead the attack. As things stand, Kane is set to be the first choice number nine for Tuchel.