Bayern Is Confident Of Facing Lionel Messi And Psg In The Champions League

It still early to be talking about the Champions League but Bayern Munich have already begun preparations as they face Paris Saint-Germain within a month’s time.  You may think it’s a bit early to be talking about the Champions League Round of 16, but you’d be wrong. For Bayern, the Bundesliga hasn’t resumed yet, which allows them time to set tactics for their round-of-16 clash.

The Bayern squad is plagued with injuries to some key players. However, the Bavarians are not bothered by the idea of facing PSG or its attacking trio of Messi-Neymar-Mbappe.

What Did Julian Nagelsmann Have To Say?

Bayern Coach, Nagelsmann spoke the following during the team’s winter training camp in Qatar. He said “The games against Paris are 50-50. We’ll see whether we’ll be fitter in these games because our players have had a longer break — in games like that, the form of the day always decides.”

Talking about Sadio Mane’s availability, he added: “If everything goes very, very well, he might be able to play against Paris, but I’m not making any predictions right now. There’s a small remaining chance for the first leg.”

Opinions Of Club Executives And Players

Sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic had a mutual feeling, as he said that Bayern would “be sensible and not rush things” when it comes to the recovery of injured players.

Cult hero, Thomas Muller mentions that he understands the value that the second half of the season carries and claims that the ‘team will play better than last year.’ It is after all referred to as the business end of the season considering all the trophies that are available to win.

The German forward added: “The coach knows us better, we know the coach better,” continued the 33-year-old.

“We made improvements. We know what the coach wants. The signs are very good. The games against Paris will be crucial.”

No matter how confident the Bavarians might seem. Overcoming a squad like PSG will not be a piece of cake.

Bayern, however, has a huge hole in their defensive line as Lucas Hernandez and Manuel Neuer have been sidelined with long-term injuries. Right-back Noussair Mazraoui on the other hand has been diagnosed with pericarditis (inflammation of the heart covering).

Nevertheless, the atmosphere in the dressing room is all about smiles. However, things might change as the fixtures come closer. It’s European Football after all.

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