Bayern Munich suffer injury blow ahead of start of new season

Bayern Munich will have to make do without Josip Stanišić for the next few weeks after the defender picked up a knee injury in training.

Josip Stanišić underwent surgery on his right knee on Tuesday and will be out of action for several weeks. According to Bayern Munich, the defender tore a collateral ligament in his right knee during Monday's training session.

The injury comes as a big blow for Bayern Munich, who are already having to make do without Hiroki Ito after the summer signing injured his foot during pre-season.

Bayern Munich face right-back shortage following Josip Stanišić injury

Stanišić is expected to play a crucial role at right-back for Bayern Munich this season. And his absence leaves Vincent Kompany's side a little light in that role.

Bayern Munich recently sold Noussair Mazraoui to Manchester United, While Sacha Boey is currently on the comeback trail from his injury. Although the 23 year old is closing in on his return, it is unlikely that he will come straight into the starting XI this weekend.

So Joshua Kimmich could be asked to slot in at right-back once again for this weekend's Bundesliga opener against VfL Wolfsburg. Highly rated full-back Adam Aznou could also be an option for the role.

Stanišić is coming off an impressive season out on loan at Bayer Leverkusen and played a crucial role in their run to the Bundesliga title. It remains to be seen exactly how long the Croatian international will be sidelined for. But the hope will be that he can return to action soon and make a similar impact at Bayern Munich.