UCL Spotlight: Critical Matchups in Bayern Munich vs. PSG

Key battles to watch out for when Bayern Munich host Paris Saint-Germain on matchday five of the UEFA Champions League.

Bayern Munich host Paris Saint-Germain on matchday five of the UEFA Champions League.
Bayern Munich host Paris Saint-Germain on matchday five of the UEFA Champions League. | Adam Pretty/GettyImages
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Konrad Laimer vs Bradley Barcola

After the departure of Kylian Mbappe in the summer, Bradley Barcola has stepped up for Paris Saint-Germain. The 22-year-old winger has scored ten goals in Ligue 1 this season and chipped in with two assists. He has been the top scorer for PSG, helping them gain a lead of six points at the top of the Ligue 1.

Barcola has not replicated his Ligue 1 form in the Champions League until now. However, he remains PSG’s most potent forward, one who can trouble Bayern on Tuesday. The former Lyon winger is expected to start on the left flank for the French champions.

Vincent Kompany has relied on Raphaël Guerreiro and Konrad Laimer in the right-back position over the last couple of months. With Sacha Boey being slowly eased into action, one of Laimer/ Guerreiro will start against Barcola on Tuesday. Since Laimer got a rest on Friday against Augsburg, the Austrian may get the nod against PSG. Moreover, the Austrian midfielder is relentless with and without the ball, which will be crucial for Bayern to contain Barcola.

If Laimer ends up keeping Barcola quiet on Tuesday, Bayern will have a good chance of keeping a clean sheet and strengthening their chances of getting all three points. (Stats courtesy: Whoscored)