Bayern Munich is set to face Inter Milan in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final on April 8, 2025, at the Allianz Arena. Despite a significant injury crisis, manager Vincent Kompany remains resolute, refusing to use the team’s depleted roster as an excuse.
Injury Challenges
The Bavarians are grappling with the absence of several key players:
- Manuel Neuer (Goalkeeper): Unavailable due to injury.
- Alphonso Davies (Defender): Sidelined with an injury.
- Dayot Upamecano (Defender): Out of action because of injury.
- Hiroki Ito (Defender): Also missing from the lineup due to injury.
- Kingsley Coman (Forward): Unavailable for selection.
- Jamal Musiala (Midfielder): Sustained a thigh injury in the recent 3-1 Bundesliga victory over Augsburg, further compounding the team’s woes.
Kompany’s Stance
Addressing the media ahead of the crucial clash, Kompany emphasized confidence in his available squad members:
“We have entered a difficult situation. But we are in the Champions League, and we have to look forward, not backwards. The available players will give their best. Those who will go on the field have always trained at the top and will make their contribution.”
He further stated:
“I have faith in these players; I don’t want to complain, and I don’t want to change our goals or my strategies. Those who play are 100%, and it means that they have my trust.”
Potential Lineup Adjustments
The absence of Musiala opens up possibilities for veteran Thomas Müller to feature prominently. However, Kompany remained non-committal about lineup decisions:
“I don’t want to give you details because we’ve already played a few matches without Musiala. If you look back, you’ll see the solutions we’ve used to replace him. It’s just a matter of understanding what we’ll need for tomorrow’s match.”
Team Mentality
Midfielder Konrad Laimer echoed the manager’s sentiments, highlighting the squad’s collective resolve:
“We’re not looking for excuses. This situation brings the team together to overcome this as a group.”
Opposition Overview
Inter Milan, under the guidance of Simone Inzaghi, presents a formidable challenge. The Serie A leaders have conceded just two goals in ten Champions League matches this season, underscoring their defensive solidity.
Despite the injury setbacks, Bayern Munich aims to leverage home advantage in the first leg. Kompany’s unwavering belief in his squad’s depth and quality reflects the club’s determination to advance further in the tournament.
As the team prepares for this pivotal encounter, the focus remains on delivering a performance that aligns with Bayern’s storied European pedigree.
