Bayern poised to select ominously strong team to ensure progression…
With Bayern 2-0 up from the first leg, here’s the side we think Pep Guardiola will choose this evening to face Arsenal in the Champions League last 16.
GK) Manuel Neuer
The German stopper is arguably the best keeper in the world right now, and Arsenal know they will have to score at least two past him if they are to progress to the quarters.
DR) Rafinha
The Brazilian provides a consistent attacking option down the right for Bayern when they are in possession, but has the fitness to track back and contribute defensively on the rare occasions his side don’t have the ball.
DC) Jerome Boateng
With Holger Badstuber a long term injury victim, Boateng and Dante start nearly every match at the heart of defence. Don’t expect this evening to be any different.
DC) Dante
The Brazilian is powerful, but also has the technical ability to start attacks from deep with crisp passes into the midfield.
DL) David Alaba
Alaba missed a penalty last during the first leg, and will be keen to rectify the mistake with a typically barnstorming display down the left.
DMC) Philipp Lahm
Bayern’s captain plays a pivotal anchoring midfield role in the side now, after Pep Guardiola converted him from a fullback. He rarely ever gives the ball away, and provides an exceptional defensive platform as well.
MC) Toni Kroos
Kroos was the best player on the pitch during the first leg, scoring a sublime goal and completely running the show in the middle of the park.
MC) Thiago Alcantra
Thiago’s form means brilliant midfielders like Bastian Schweinsteiger and Javi Martinez can’t even get in the starting XI at the moment. He was rested at the weekend, but came on and did superbly during a thirty minute cameo.
AMR) Arjen Robben
Robben is expected to start wide on the right, able to cut in and shoot on his left foot. He’s also more than capable of getting to the byline and playing dangerous balls into the box.
AML) Franck Ribery
Ribery played the full 90 of the 6-1 demolition of Wolfsburg at the weekend, and will be fit to start the game from the left. Mario Gotze is nursing a slight injury anyway.
FC) Mario Mandzukic
This is a tough one, as both Thomas Muller and Mario Mandzukic scored braces at the weekend, but as Mandzukic started the game from the bench, we reckon he’ll lead the line this evening.
