2) Bayern's counter-pressing might just be the best in Europe
Bayern’s counter-pressing is right up there with the best in Europe, if not the best. The style of play is so relentless, and whenever Bayern lose the ball – they are always so quick to win it back, with their intense press. You can tell that Kompany has Pep Guardiola education.
At the moment, Bayern are on a six-game clean sheet streak in all competitions since their defeat at Barcelona last month. They look much more defensively solid. The players are now used to the style of play under Kompany, and are able to implement it very well.
In the last three games (Benfica, St. Pauli, Augsburg), Bayern have conceded zero big chances, and have allowed just six shots of any note – totalling 0.26 expected goals. Just unbelievable solidity and a real collective effort to maintain these standards.
It takes a real team effort to allow such few chances, and individuals such as Kim-Min Jae and Dayot Upamecano deserve serious credit. Due to the style of play, they often have to defend large spaces, and have done so really well so far. Of course, bigger tests are to come, particularly in the next ten days – but you can only play well against what’s in front of you.
Finally, Alphonso Davies has been really important to that too. His blistering recovery pace has stopped more counter-attacks than I can remember. He is improving in possession too, and sometimes forms a back three in build-up. Let’s hope the contract situation can be resolved as soon as possible.