Musiala's Comeback Powers Bayern Munich's Champions League Battle Against PSG
Bayern Munich must overcome the European titleholders to secure their place in the 2025 Club World Cup semifinals.
The German league winners faced Paris Saint-Germain in November during the Champions League group stage and secured a comfortable 1–0 triumph. Nevertheless, the PSG team that Vincent Kompany's squad will meet in Atlanta has transformed significantly since then. Luis Enrique has developed his attacking Parisians into the globe's finest team.
Although Bayern suffered defeat against Benfica in their concluding group match, they have demonstrated impressive form in the United States, especially regarding their defensive organization. Flamengo seemed like a challenging round of 16 opponent initially, but the Bavarian powerhouse dismissed them decisively through Harry Kane's clinical finishing performance.
Their outstanding performance suggests minimal alterations are expected for Saturday's quarterfinal encounter. Here's their potential formation against PSG.
Bayern Munich Predicted Lineup vs. PSG (4-3-3)
GK: Manuel Neuer—Kompany has rotated his squad extensively throughout the tournament, with Neuer being the sole player to feature in every minute.
RB: Konrad Laimer—Although Laimer excelled in central midfield during Thomas Tuchel's final period, Kompany has successfully transformed him into an energetic attacking fullback. Julian Nagelsmann initially explored this concept during their time together at RB Leipzig.
CB: Jonathan Tah—The recent signing has been immediately placed under pressure with Kim Min-Jae sidelined through injury. His most significant challenge of the summer arrives this weekend.
CB: Dayot Upamecano—Upamecano delivered consistent performances during Kompany's inaugural season as manager but missed the campaign's conclusion due to injury. He's gradually returning to form this summer and should earn his third tournament start on Saturday.
LB: Josip Stanišić—The adaptable defender discussed his transition to left-back before Saturday's match, indicating it's not drastically different from playing centrally or on the right. The reliable Croatian will maintain his position and likely face plenty of Désiré Doué.
CM: Joshua Kimmich—His return to midfield has been crucial to Bayern's achievements under Kompany, and he'll undoubtedly start from the beginning in Atlanta.
CM: Leon Goretzka—The German midfielder experienced a revival last season and partnered with Kimmich in the round of 16. Goretzka continues to be vital to their defensive efforts.
RW: Michael Olise—The Olise versus Mendes matchup represents an individual battle worth watching. The Portuguese defender outperformed most top-level wingers he encountered last season.
AM: Jamal Musiala—Bayern's new number 10 has alternated between starting and substitute roles since his impressive showing against Auckland City. Despite PSG's quality, the Germans believe they can use Musiala to capitalize on Vitinha's defensive vulnerabilities.
LW: Kingsley Coman—The French winger sustained a muscle problem in the previous game, but the injury isn't anticipated to rule him out of Saturday's quarterfinal.
ST: Harry Kane—Kane's goals in the last round were exceptional, and he's pursuing Club World Cup Golden Boot recognition. However, his team must progress to the semifinals to maximize his opportunities.