Bayern Munich predicted lineup vs Augsburg - Bundesliga
By Max Parsons
Bayern Munich will look to pick themselves up from a disappointing result last time out as they host Augsburg in the Bundesliga at the weekend.
Julian Nagelsmann's men are fresh from a 1-0 defeat at Villarreal, putting their Champions League hopes in jeopardy. Following encouraging 4-0 and 4-1 Bundesliga victories over Union Berlin and Freiburg respectively, that result signalled their newfound inability to maintain a killer touch and put top opposition to the sword.
This weekend brings with it an opportunity to raise spirits, however, as they face an Augsburg side in a lowly 13th place - although three wins in their previous four shows this ain't gonna be no walkover. Here's how the hosts could set out.
1. Goalkeeper & defenders
Manuel Neuer (GK) - An inevitable starter when fit, Neuer will certainly skipper the side once more.
Benjamin Pavard (RB) - Visibly performs better as the right-sided player in a back three but, in any case, is the preferred option on this side.
Niklas Sule (CB) - Should return to the fold to replace Dayot Upamecano, who was fairly calamitous last time out.
Lucas Hernandez (CB) - A reliable and consistent defensive performer for Bayern, the Frenchman has also registered two assists in his last two league appearances.
Alphonso Davies (LB) - A positive footnote in Bayern's midweek defeat was Fonzie's return to action and, following a very good display, Road Runner should continue in the side.
2. Midfielders
Joshua Kimmich (CM) - Such a pivotal presence at the heart of this side, Kimmich is the cog around which the machine works.
Leon Goretzka (CM) - His substitute cameo was cut short in midweek after suffering a blood-gushing cut to the head, although the dynamic midfielder should be fine to feature here.
Thomas Muller (AM) - Can expect a bit more space and joy this weekend than he got in what was a very tough evening in Spain last time out.
3. Forwards
Leroy Sane (RW) - Left out of the side last time out, although could be set for a return in place of Serge Gnabry.
Robert Lewandowski (ST) - Has been woeful in the last two outings - without a goal to bail him out, either - but never discount him from adding a few more to his tally on a single afternoon.
Kingsley Coman (LW)- Has been one of the side's brightest sparks in recent weeks and should continue in the front line.