Bayern Munich: Thomas Tuchel explains decision to play Leroy Sane on left flank

After a quiet end to Hinrunde, Leroy Sane started the second half of the season in the best possible way for Bayern Munich. The German winger bagged two assists during the 3-0 win against Hoffenheim last weekend. Sane was still far from his best, but he looked much sharper in the final third than he looked in December.

The German international has been one of the best wide players in Europe this season. He has enjoyed great returns in the final third under Thomas Tuchel. Moreover, his performances have been consistent in games where he has not chipped in with a goal or assist.

Sane has been lauded in Germany for his quality performances this season. Former Bayern defender Lothar Matthaus was particularly impressed by Sane’s workrate when the team was defending. Matthaus believes that Sane is a much more complete wide player this season.

Tuchel has managed to use Sane across both flanks. The German winger has enjoyed good returns in goals and assists from both wide positions. However, he has looked much more threatening from the left flank. While talking to the media on Saturday (via iMiaSanMia), Tuchel explained the reason behind using Sane regularly on the left flank.

""Yes it has a bit to do with that because Kingsley on the right acts almost as a wing-back defensively off the ball. Leroy had by far his best season with Manchester City on the left wing. In my opinion, he can get into the box more from there. We really like him there at the moment. But both are an option. We've got both options and can also change it depending on the game and opponent.""

- Thomas Tuchel

Sane is a left-footed player, so playing him on the right flank is also an attractive proposition. However, he looks much more dangerous in the final thirds when he comes inside from the left flank. Several Bundesliga teams have struggled to cope with Sane’s dribbling and ball-carrying ability this season.

The German international has also formed a brilliant chemistry with Harry Kane in the final third. The English striker has hit the ground running for the Bavarian club since arriving from Tottenham Hotspur in the summer. Sane has been consistently creating chances for Kane and vice-versa since both of them are on the same wavelength in the final third.

Tuchel is confident that Sane will continue to contribute with more goals and assists in Ruckrunde despite a quiet end to the first half of the season. He is currently on nine goals and ten assists across all competitions. In an ideal scenario, Sane will double these numbers in the next four months.

Meanwhile, Bayern are working on extending Sane’s contract beyond 2025. The 28-year-old winger is also keen on staying in Munich. It does look like a matter of time before Die Roten complete negotiations with Sane for a contract renewal.