Holger Badstuber unsure if Dayot Upamecano will be able to develop into a leader at Bayern Munich

Former Bayern Munich prospect Holger Badstuber saw his career derailed by injuries, but over the years the 32-year-old has learned quite a few things about football, its players, the roles on the pitch, and what characteristics are needed to be successful.

Specifically, Badstuber thinks he has developed an understanding at what the expectations are for performance and leadership while filling the role of center-back — particularly at a massive club like Bayern Munich.

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When quizzed by Bild about how RB Leipzig center-back might fit in with the Bavarians, Badstuber did not pull any punches — the veteran defender does not think Upamecano can be a leader at Säbener Straße.

“Such a young player does not come to Bayern and is the leader. I do not hear him. You cannot be a leader if you are so calm,” said Badstuber to Bild (as captured by Goal). “You have to direct, give instructions. I see Lucas Hernandez there!”

Without David Alaba and Jerome Boateng in tow next season, Bayern Munich will be losing its most vocal center-backs. Even Lucas Hernandez does not bring the type of vocal presence to the pitch that Alaba and Boateng each do. Niklas Süle is another key figure that should be a part of Bayern Munich’s backline next season and even he is not considered a vocal player.

Will the lack of a “vocal leader” along the backline be an issue or will Bayern Munich’s group of defenders be able to just let their play on the field do the talking?