Three days before the top game against Bayer Leverkusen there is a defensive alarm at FC Bayern.
The trigger: Niklas Süle (26) has been missing from team training for two days because of back problems. It is questionable whether he can play on Saturday (3.30 p.m.)…
Ironically, Süle! The central defender is currently Bayern’s most form defensive player and has established himself as a defensive boss since the announcement of his move to BVB in early February. In Frankfurt (1-0) he was Bayern’s best and got the BILD grade 1.
With Alphonso Davies (21), Bayern has been missing a top defender for weeks due to heart muscle inflammation. And: Lucas Hernández (26) is suspended after his 5th yellow card against Frankfurt. If Süle is also absent on Saturday, the personal puzzle begins for coach Nagelsmann (34).
chain of three: If Nagelsmann opts for a 3-2-4-1, Upamecano and Pavard would be in defense. Omar Richards (24) could slip into the team on the left – like last time against Fürth. Marcel Sabitzer (27) also helped out twice in this position in the second half of the season. Both would have problems with the nimble Leverkuseners.
back four: In 4-2-3-1, Upamecano and Pavard could defend inside, Richards or Sabitzer on the left and Joshua Kimmich (27) would be an option on the right, but he would then be missing in midfield…
Right-back backup Bouna Sarr (30/patella tendon problems) is currently unavailable, Josip Stanisic (21) and Tanguy Nianzou (19) have no match practice.
Süle only have Thursday and Friday to get fit for the league cracker.
Marc Roca (25) and Robert Lewandowski (33) were also absent from team training on Wednesday. According to BILD information, both should be back on Thursday.
