Bayern Munich vs Hoffenheim: Bundesliga Matchday 17 Preview
Bayern Munich returns to Bundesliga action on Friday against Hoffenheim as the Bavarians continue to chase Bayer Leverkusen at the top of the table.
Following the Bundesliga winter break, Bayern Munich returns to action and continues their quest for another title as they host Hoffenheim on Friday. This will be the first meeting between the two sides this season, and Thomas Tuchel's side will no doubt be looking to start the calendar season off on a winning note.
Tuchel will certainly have to use a different starting XI than what we have been used to seeing. With both the Asian Cup and Africa Cup of Nations starting, Die Roten will have to get a bit creative with their lineups and will certainly be hoping for reinforcements as the winter transfer window is open. With both teams looking to start the second half of the season with a win, let us have a look at what we can expect from both sides.
Bayern Munich
After missing the start of the season, club captain Manuel Neuer will get the start in goal as he continues to impress upon his return from injury. As long as he is fit, he will start.
With Noussair Mazraoui gone with the Moroccan national team, the right-back position looks to be filled by Konrad Laimer until reinforcements can be brought in. Centrally, South Korean Kim Min-jae will be gone with his national side, leaving Matthijs de Ligt and Dayot Upamecano as the first choice center backs. Despite interest from Real Madrid, Alphonso Davies will continue to start as the left-sided defender.
With Konrad Laimer serving as the first-choice right back, the midfield duo of Joshua Kimmich and Leon Goretzka should start together. However, I would not be surprised if we saw the youngster Aleksandar Pavlovic fill in for Goretzka as his last few outings have been very good. In front of the two holding midfielders, Jamal Musiala will bring his usual flair and creativity to the attack by slotting in the number ten position.
Leroy Sane will get the start out wide right and look to drift centrally to help the attacking trio. Kingsley Coman will play on the left flank, while Harry Kane will continue his chase for the golden boot as he leads Die Roten's attack.
Bayern Munich Predicted Starting XI
Neuer
Laimer-Upamecano-de Ligt-Davies
Kimmich-Goretzka
Sane-Musiala-Coman
Kane