Bayern Munich vs Bayer Leverkusen: Three key battles

Joshua Kimmich vs Florian Wirtz

After an inconsistent 2023/24 campaign, Joshua Kimmich has looked more like himself for Bayern this season. The German international has looked calm with and without the ball, helping Die Roten dominate games. Kimmich is seeing more off the ball, which helps him to create chances in the final third.

Kimmich is not exactly a number six under Vincent Kompany since he partners more natural holding/ defensive midfielders in Aleksandar Pavlović and João Palhinha. However, he will have to be at his best defensively when Bayern host Bayer Leverkusen.

The 29-year-old midfielder will come up against Florian Wirtz since they will be operating in the same area of the pitch. Wirtz plays behind the striker for Bayer Leverkusen. He has been in sensational form this season, scoring four goals in four league games until now. The 21-year-old attacking midfielder will be Leverkusen’s biggest threat in the final third. (Stats courtesy- Whoscored)

Kimmich has excelled in six games Bayern have played this season. However, his performance against Bayer Leverkusen will give a better indicator of him completing the turnaround from last campaign. Die Roten need Kimmich to keep Wirtz quiet by giving less time on the ball, which will significantly increase the chances of victory for the hosts.