Bayern Munich manager Hansi Flick wary of FC Köln, but praises his team’s mentality and Thomas Müller

Bayern Munich manager Hansi Flick is not going to look at the Bundesliga table and think that FC Köln is going to be any type of pushover this weekend.

In fact, Flick noted that FC Köln has shown the ability raise its level of play against some of the league’s best clubs.

“If you look at the games against Dortmund, Gladbach, Wolfsburg or Leipzig, they achieved good results against top teams,” said Flick (as captured by Tz). “It’s a team that is very good on the defensive, defends very well and is very close to the man. They switch over well via their fast players. We have to have good solutions and the rest of the defense has to be secured so we don’t run into a counterattack.”

Preventing the counterattack has been one of the primary thorns in Flick’s side all season. Still, the manager loves his team’s resolve and appreciates the way they have battled through adversity on-and-off the pitch.

“I have to give the team a huge compliment,” Flick stated. “The mentality is outstanding. The team has exactly the attitude that you need to play a good season. I feel the will. After the FC Köln game we can train well for two weeks straight.”

Finally, Flick admitted that it was going to be nice to have Thomas Müller back with the squad.

“I keep saying that he’s an exceptional player and always very active,” Flick said. “He brings a special atmosphere to the team. He is very professional. His attitude is great, but he’s also relaxed.”