About two hours away from kickoff and the fans are filing into the Allianz Arena. Today's news is that Holger Badstuber is officially out (still suffering from the flu). Goal.com boldly predicts that Bayern "could" turn to Jerome Boateng to play defense. Really going out on a limb, there, guys.
Reader "Tflags" points out that Balotelli is suspended for Manchester City. Mario hasn't been starting for City anyway, but he would certainly have been a threat off the bench. City will start with Dzeko and Aguero up top, with Carlos Tevez the likely first forward off the bench.
Other fun facts:
- Jupp Heynckes has never before faced an English opponent in a UEFA match as a head coach.
- Manuel Neuer has not allowed a goal in over 800 minutes of competitive play.
- Gambling line has Bayern as the favorites (1.8 to 1 on the win, 1.95 to 1 on a draw, and Manchester City at 4 to 1 to win). I'm pretty confident, but I have to admit those are pretty long odds for a City win.
I'll be back to update with the line-ups once they become available. Viva viva FC Bayern!