Bavarian Football Works - Bayern Munich vs Bayer Leverkusen: 2020-21 Bundesliga all updates Manufacturing goals in the German tradition, for domestic consumption and for export.https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47275/bavarian-fave.png2021-10-18T16:30:00+02:00http://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/rss/stream/221601582021-10-18T16:30:00+02:002021-10-18T16:30:00+02:00Bayern Munich fans shouldn’t expect a Florian Wirtz signing any time soon
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<img alt="Bayer 04 Leverkusen v FC Bayern München - Bundesliga" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/BKhyyrJPkpJwu5bygs-1bQk1bAE=/0x340:1954x1643/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/70010778/1347098918.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Lukas Schulze/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Germany’s latest phenom probably is not leaving Leverkusen for a while. </p> <p id="LihhGU"><a href="https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com">Bayern Munich</a> fans had a chance to get an up-close look at Bayer Leverkusen youngster Florian Wirtz as <em>Die Roten</em> dominated <em>Die Werkself</em>.</p>
<p id="7SOLeY">While Leverkusen was getting spanked as a team, Wirtz was able to show some flashes of his brilliance. That top-level talent is what is attracting Bayern Munich — and a lot of other clubs — to the Germany international.</p>
<p id="UVBycl"><a href="https://www.abendzeitung-muenchen.de/sport/fcbayern/transfer-news-zum-fc-bayern-voeller-machtwort-erstmal-keine-fcb-chance-bei-florian-wirtz-art-544463">Abendzeitung</a> captured an interview that Leverkusen sporting director Rudi Völler gave to Bild, where Völler indicated that Wirtz is still young and has plenty of time to develop at his current club: </p>
<blockquote>
<p id="1h95Pe">Despite his contract extension with Bayern Leverkusen until 2026, Florian Wirtz is already considered a hot candidate on Säbener Straße. As Bayer boss Rudi Völler made clear before the significant defeat against Bayern, the interested clubs must be patient first.</p>
<p id="GiJOTZ">Wirtz will “definitely” play for Leverkusen next season: “Nobody has to ask. Florian is in very good hands with us,” he told “Bild”. He also referred a possible exit clause to the realm of fables: “When the rumor was spread a few weeks ago that there was an exit clause in the contract until 2026, I clarified that immediately,” said Völler. </p>
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<p id="FPdaqr">At just 18-years-old, Völler is correct. Wirtz still has room for his game to grow and transferring away too early could cause more harm than good to the starlet’s development. </p>
<p id="bB29qD">Bayern Munich fans hoping to see Wirtz and Jamal Musiala on the same pitch soon will have to treasure those international matches, though. Hansi Flick will be the only manager that will be able to call on both of those players any time in the immediate future. </p>
<aside id="t5JEhd"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Germany Watch: Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz better than Chelsea’s Kai Havertz?","url":"https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/10/9/22713625/germany-watch-florian-wirtz-better-than-kai-havertz-bayern-munich-transfer-bayer-leverkusen-chelsea"}]}'></div></aside><p id="xer7he"></p>
https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/10/18/22732097/bayern-munich-transfer-florian-wirtz-bundesliga-muller-kimmich-nagelsmann-musiala-goretzka-sabitzerCSmith19192021-10-18T06:00:00+02:002021-10-18T06:00:00+02:00Daily Schmankerl: The aftermath of Bayern Munich vs. Bayer Leverkusen; Real Madrid, PSG, Liverpool talking Robert Lewandowski move; Madrid’s wish list includes Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappe, plus others; Super Marios everywhere; and MORE!
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<img alt="Bayer 04 Leverkusen v FC Bayern München - Bundesliga" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Qb7_taZRrpW1pe3FBlYOS60Q2EI=/0x0:2138x1425/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/70009287/1347099432.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Lukas Schulze/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Bayern Munich looks like Bayern Munich again, eh?</p> <h2 id="04J2fY"><a href="https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/10/17/22729954/bayer-leverkusen-vs-bayern-munich-lineups-live-stream-how-to-watch-bundesliga-updates-highlights"><strong>Die Folgen: Bayern’s 5-1 dismantling of Leverkusen (Bavarian Football Works)</strong></a></h2>
<p id="3NIzbL"><a href="https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com">Bayern Munich</a> crushed Bayer Leverkusen in a match-up between the Bundesliga’s top squads. In a match that was supposed to be tight, it ended up being anything but. Here are some quick hitters on the match: </p>
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<li id="400fPi">Let’s address the big question that is on everyone’s mind...is Robert Lewandowski happy now?</li>
<li id="6S0QIk">We all know how <em>The Wire</em>’s Bunk Moreland would pose that question — with a sly smile of course: “You happy now, b!tc%?” </li>
<li id="BuF57t">Of course, Lewandowski is happy with the brace, but probably a little bitter he didn’t get a hat trick. That is what makes him great, though. What a performer. What a player. The Polish Hitman was masterful.</li>
<li id="Bnr5iV">Bayern Munich’s execution on the free kick that set up Lewandowski’s first goal was superb. Joshua Kimmich found Dayot Upamecano wide of the far post and the defender’s redirection to the Polish Hitman was excellent. That is exactly the kind of goal that many strikers find a way to miss on. Not Lewandowski. </li>
<li id="lcF64E">Still, even with that early lead, Bayern Munich was far from at their best. They were choppy and sloppy at times...that did not last long, however. The Bavarians ultimately ended up turning in one of their most complete and dominant efforts of the season.</li>
<li id="z0zWDI">It seemed as if Bayern Munich was incredibly amped. The squad’s press was very active...maybe more than some other games that we have seen this season. </li>
<li id="LtNNhn">Seriously — and I give you all permission — give me the hands if you ever see me doing this at a game...or anywhere in public: </li>
</ul>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Leverkusen lost 5-1 to Bayern Munich and this was still the most uncomfortable thing to watch on <a href="https://twitter.com/Bundesliga_EN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Bundesliga_EN</a> this weekend: <a href="https://t.co/W0IjzAzzab">pic.twitter.com/W0IjzAzzab</a></p>— Stefan Bienkowski (@SBienkowski) <a href="https://twitter.com/SBienkowski/status/1449818715617366018?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2021</a>
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<ul>
<li id="ZEYl5g">Leroy Sane’s shot in the 19th minute was very cheeky and almost got in...if not for that pesky post. At this point in the match, Bayern Munich was smothering Leverkusen. </li>
<li id="jAa2Ff">I’m sure Leon Goretzka wants his attempt in the 22nd minute back. That is a shot that the midfielder normally buries. </li>
<li id="ipdELB">Alphonso Davies was brilliant in dribbling in to suck in the defense as he set up Lewandowski’s second goal. You just can’t leave Lewandowski a sliver of space. </li>
<li id="rMiFcU">Thomas Müller’s deflection goal on Niklas Süle’s shot attempt was pretty neat (and maybe a little lucky). Müller looked re-energized out there, which was really good to see. With such a heavy schedule at his age, it is always tricky to manage that type of workload. </li>
<li id="VlDwJU">Just seconds later, Müller perfectly set up Serge Gnabry for the squad’s fourth goal. It was a brilliant run by Gnabry and just a terrific pass from Müller. The effort that started the pay, however, was Leroy Sane’s relentless pressing.</li>
<li id="MVgaSf">Bayer Leverkusen was completely flustered by this point and a quick, give-and-go from Gnabry and Goretzka resulted in Bayern Munich’s astounding fifth first half goal. </li>
<li id="NB2OYS">I think this game was the best effort from Kimmich and Goretzka in working together in the midfield. Their time together was dominant.</li>
<li id="tD2HgV">Goretzka seemed to be playing higher up the pitch than we are used to seeing.</li>
<li id="YQpJTw">Bayern Munich’s defensive work rate was really off the charts. </li>
<li id="Dk4YFS">Süle was excellent. What a match from the big man! This has been an excellent campaign for the Germany international so far. </li>
<li id="r8xbvL">The entire back line was outstanding on the day really. It was just a dominant performance at both ends of the pitch.</li>
<li id="EhgRv1">Florian Wirtz and Patrick Schick could be a very lethal combo with some more time together. </li>
<li id="v4q1gc">I don’t know what Bayer Leverkusen takes from that effort. In the beginning of the match, they were going punch for punch, but losing. Then Bayern Munich just overwhelmed them with a barrage before things settle back down in the second half for <em>Die Werkself</em>. At a minimum, Leverkusen learned that it still has a way to go to catch up with Bayern Munich.</li>
</ul>
<p id="20Mk7V">If you missed our <a href="https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/10/17/22729954/bayer-leverkusen-vs-bayern-munich-lineups-live-stream-how-to-watch-bundesliga-updates-highlights">Initial Analysis</a>, <a href="https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/10/17/22731186/bayer-leverkusen-vs-bayern-munich-match-awards-player-ratings-wirtz-kimmich-lewandowski-nagelsmann">Match Awards</a>, <a href="https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/10/17/22731212/bayer-leverkusen-vs-bayern-munich-match-observations-analysis-wirtz-kimmich-lewandowski-nagelsmann">Observations</a>, or <a href="https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/10/17/22731231/bayer-leverkusen-vs-bayern-munich-postgame-podcast-thomas-muller-lewandowski-davies-gnabry-kimmich">Postgame Podcast</a>, give them a look or a listen: </p>
<div id="BZmHyI"><iframe src="https://player.megaphone.fm/VMP5509695733" style="border: 0; width: 100%; height: 200px;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media"></iframe></div>
<aside id="i4BElM"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Bayer Leverkusen 1-5 Bayern Munich: Initial reactions and observations","url":"https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/10/17/22729954/bayer-leverkusen-vs-bayern-munich-lineups-live-stream-how-to-watch-bundesliga-updates-highlights"},{"title":"Match awards from Bayern Munich’s 5-1 thrashing of Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga","url":"https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/10/17/22731186/bayer-leverkusen-vs-bayern-munich-match-awards-player-ratings-wirtz-kimmich-lewandowski-nagelsmann"},{"title":"Three observations from Bayern’s 5-1 obliteration of Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga","url":"https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/10/17/22731212/bayer-leverkusen-vs-bayern-munich-match-observations-analysis-wirtz-kimmich-lewandowski-nagelsmann"},{"title":"Bavarian Podcast Works Postgame Show: Bayern Munich beats direct title rivals Bayer Leverkusen 1-5","url":"https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/10/17/22731231/bayer-leverkusen-vs-bayern-munich-postgame-podcast-thomas-muller-lewandowski-davies-gnabry-kimmich"}]}'></div></aside><h2 id="4OrkQ0"><a href="https://www.transfermarketweb.com/bundesliga/bundesliga-lewandowski-is-debated-between-three-teams-224177"><strong>Lewy being pursued by three clubs (Transfer Market Web)</strong></a></h2>
<p id="QNMnut">With word of Robert Lewandowski being frustrated at Bayern Munich, the vultures are circling. Specifically, <a href="https://www.managingmadrid.com">Real Madrid</a>, Paris Saint-Germain, and <a href="https://liverpooloffside.sbnation.com/">Liverpool</a>: </p>
<blockquote>
<p id="7Aveqn">Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski is one of the best players in the world and 2022 could be the year we see him change clubs since he left Dortmund to join the German giant.</p>
<p id="xqmvDA">The Pole is one of the best positioned to win the Ballon d’Or, which he would have already achieved in 2020, without any doubt, if the award had finally been awarded. Now there are three teams that dream of taking over the scoring power of the Polish star.</p>
<p id="dF1mVo">- <a href="https://bitterandblue.sbnation.com">Manchester City</a>: Guardiola’s City needs a quality ‘9’ that combines with the greatness of the blue squad and Lewandowski is right for him. A striker who falls in love with the Catalan coach, who knows him perfectly and knows that he is not only a scorer, but that he is also a player who would fit perfectly in his football. City also has the solvency to offer a good sum that could satisfy Bayern.</p>
<p id="Ogowvh">- Real Madrid: A few hours ago, we were also aware that the Polish footballer would have offered himself to the white club. It is true that the star of the Bavarian team has sounded for Madrid on several occasions and this could be the year in which they took over his services, although he would have to fit into an alienation that Karim Benzema cannot do without.</p>
<p id="HRvN2g">- Liverpool: Given the possible departure of Salah, which is in the process of renewal as well as speculation, Lewandowski could be the one to not lose the goal and the quality that the Egyptian provides to the ‘reds’. Although they are very different players, both are very important offensively and he has the approval of Klopp, who would welcome the arrival of the Pole.</p>
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<p id="m0fO6N">Lewandowski’s future <em>might</em> be uncertain, but it remains to be seen if he actually wants to leave Bayern Munich. </p>
<aside id="x26DWo"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":" Report: PSG to pursue Bayern Munich’s Robert Lewandowski as a backup transfer option ","url":"https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/10/18/22731272/report-psg-to-pursue-bayern-munich-robert-lewandowski-as-a-backup-transfer-option-mbappe-haaland"}]}'></div></aside><h2 id="tx9aY2"><a href="https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/10/15/22727546/podcast-germany-bayern-munich-sule-lewandowski-werner-flick-nagelsmann-havertz-muller-haaland-sane"><strong>ICYMI: The Weekend Warm-up Podcast (Bavarian Football Works)</strong></a></h2>
<p id="MoNC32"><a href="https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com">Bayern Munich</a> kicked back into Bundesliga action this weekend, but the club had more than a few big stories break — and we’re not even delving too far into Lucas Hernandez being summoned to Spain to face a prison sentence. </p>
<p id="3mZgvi">Let’s take a look at what we have on tap for this episode: </p>
<ul>
<li id="WkzTn9">A recap of Germany’s progress under Hansi Flick. </li>
<li id="27fqqL">More noise surrounding Niklas Süle’s uncertain future in Bavaria.</li>
<li id="zSfGZg">Robert Lewandowski’s rumored meltdown and why this probably has at least some validity. </li>
<li id="U4KLHR">Bayern Munich’s front office taking a look at what it might take to bring in <a href="https://www.fearthewall.com">Borussia Dortmund</a> star Erling Haaland. </li>
</ul>
<div id="ETuiqQ"><iframe src="https://player.megaphone.fm/VMP1249459064" style="border: 0; width: 100%; height: 200px;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media"></iframe></div>
<aside id="CSwMPe"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Bavarian Podcast Works: Weekend Warm-up Podcast Season 1, Episode 21 — A recap of Germany’s performance; Bayern Munich’s Niklas Süle problem; Robert Lewandowski’s alleged meltdown; Erling Haaland at Bayern?; and MORE!","url":"https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/10/15/22727546/podcast-germany-bayern-munich-sule-lewandowski-werner-flick-nagelsmann-havertz-muller-haaland-sane"}]}'></div></aside><h2 id="xgKdqj"><a href="https://sportbild.bild.de/fussball/la-liga/primera-division/mega-umbruch-im-sommer-real-madrids-galaktische-einkaufsliste-77972720.sport.html"><strong>Madrid’s wish list (Sport Bild)</strong></a></h2>
<p id="ThBj82">Speaking of <em>Los Blancos</em>, the complete shopping list for Real Madrid is quite...ambitious: </p>
<blockquote>
<p id="QNXUCm">Real Madrid are currently the only club in Europe with more <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/transfer-rumors">transfer rumors</a> than <a href="https://cominghomenewcastle.sbnation.com">Newcastle United</a>. According to “As”, the “royal” want to be very big on the transfer market next summer:</p>
<p id="bTNcBI">► Kylian Mbappé (Paris St. Germain)</p>
<p id="WJ4LYA">► Erling Haaland (Borussia Dortmund)</p>
<p id="vhI2Vu">► Raheem Sterling (Manchester City)</p>
<p id="e7mmTb">► Robert Lewandowski (Bayern Munich)</p>
<p id="c5L0pb">► Paul Pogba (<a href="https://thebusbybabe.sbnation.com">Manchester United</a>)</p>
<p id="MCc5nz">► Antonio Rüdiger (<a href="https://weaintgotnohistory.sbnation.com">Chelsea FC</a>)</p>
<p id="kkgUSO">► Franck Kessié (<a href="https://acmilan.theoffside.com">AC Milan</a>)</p>
</blockquote>
<p id="9fsQ4F">This does not necessarily mean that Real Madrid is going to try and buy <em>all</em> of those players, but will likely at least put out feelers to see what they can make work. </p>
<aside id="PEljxZ"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Okay, we’ll bite: Sport Bild says Robert Lewandowski is frustrated at Bayern Munich","url":"https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/10/13/22723694/sport-bild-says-robert-lewandowski-bayern-munich-neuer-nagelsmann-muller-kimmich-mbappe-kane-sane"}]}'></div></aside><h2 id="a20ubE"><a href="https://twitter.com/mariogoetze/status/1449816370540056584?s=21"><strong>Götze meets multiple Marios (@MarioGoetze)</strong></a></h2>
<p id="1Hct5x">Mario Götze met a few Nintendo-inspired fans: </p>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">From left to right: Mario, Mario, Mario, Mario aaand Mario <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LookingForLuigi?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LookingForLuigi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PSV?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PSV</a> <a href="https://t.co/PU9XOJNZvd">pic.twitter.com/PU9XOJNZvd</a></p>— Mario Götze (@MarioGoetze) <a href="https://twitter.com/MarioGoetze/status/1449816370540056584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2021</a>
</blockquote>
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<aside id="AVLkqs"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"An empire lost? Lukasz Piszczek says Mario Götze leaving Dortmund for Bayern Munich was “biggest break” in the team","url":"https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/10/2/22698411/bayern-munich-borussia-dortmund-lukasz-piszczek-mario-gotze-jurgen-klopp-transfer-pep-guardiola-lewy"}]}'></div></aside><h2 id="d6OnDM"><a href="https://www.hammers.news/transfer-news/west-ham-could-be-set-to-snap-up-teenager-emran-soglo-who-almost-signed-for-bayern-munich-in-the-summer/"><strong>Hammers close on Soglo? (Hammers.News)</strong></a></h2>
<p id="DGEK8q"><a href="https://bracethehammer.sbnation.com/">West Ham</a> United is close to signing former Chelsea academy player Emran Soglo, who had a tryout with Bayern Munich last summer: </p>
<blockquote>
<p id="3iGjLA">West Ham United could be set to snap up teenage starlet Emran Soglo, who almost signed for European giants Bayern Munich in the summer. David Moyes has made it clear he wants to build West Ham around young, hungry talent.</p>
<p id="g3EqFe">And the Hammers have overhauled their recruitment philosophy as a result over the last 18 months, with a renewed emphasis on youth. West Ham have signed a host of young players who the club hope will go on to prove to be bargains.</p>
</blockquote>
<aside id="eeX6Vj"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Bayern Munich has not made a final decision on former Chelsea youth player Emran Soglo, but are in talks","url":"https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/8/1/22601621/bayern-munich-chelsea-emran-soglo-musiala-coman-gnabry-sane-muller-lewandowski-sieb-kimmich-neuer"}]}'></div></aside>
https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/10/18/22730991/bayern-munich-bayer-leverkusen-real-madrid-psg-liverpool-lewandowski-transfer-haaland-mbappe-mullerCSmith19192021-10-18T00:00:00+02:002021-10-18T00:00:00+02:00Postgame reaction: Bayern Munich’s Joshua Kimmich happy Bavarians shook off rough start
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<img alt="Bayer 04 Leverkusen v FC Bayern München - Bundesliga" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Mar5TjPCnnx_pyX1jYqyA6Dq5P0=/1x0:5236x3490/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/70008445/1347080004.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Lukas Schulze/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>After a tough opening 15 minutes, Joshua Kimmich saw his squad take control. </p> <p id="zpn8Cs"><a href="https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com">Bayern Munich</a> midfielder Joshua Kimmich never lost doubt that his squad would be able to beat Bayer Leverkusen in their big, Bundesliga showdown, but he was not overly happy after seeing the squad scuffle in the game’s opening minutes. </p>
<p id="rSPLpj">“I thought we had what it takes, but I didn’t think the first 15 minutes were that good. But then it was gigantic, of course,” said Kimmich. </p>
<p id="kn75w8">Coming off of a disappointing — and ultimately losing — effort against Eintracht Frankfurt, Bayern Munich was eager to get itself sorted. One of the reasons that Bayern Munich was able to take control was its ability to exploit space behind Bayer Leverkusen’s midfield. </p>
<p id="4r3VZd">“The distribution of space was really good. Especially behind the sixes of the opponent with Leon, Leroy or Thomas. That’s how we got pace into the game,” said Kimmich, who also assured fans that the tape on his ankle was nothing more than precautionary. </p>
<aside id="2zlmWJ"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Three observations from Bayern’s 5-1 obliteration of Bayer Leverkusen ","url":"https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/10/17/22731212/bayer-leverkusen-vs-bayern-munich-match-observations-analysis-wirtz-kimmich-lewandowski-nagelsmann"}]}'></div></aside><p id="5yd1Yh"></p>
https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/10/18/22731547/postgame-goretzka-nagelsmann-muller-lewadowski-gnabry-bayern-munich-joshua-kimmich-bundesliga-saneCSmith19192021-10-17T22:30:00+02:002021-10-17T22:30:00+02:00Julian Nagelsmann reacts to Bayern Munich’s stomping of Bayer Leverkusen
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<img alt="Bayer 04 Leverkusen v FC Bayern München - Bundesliga" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/HEUsUbo3T-nezzTnf4fUswtFuzE=/0x262:3422x2543/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/70008202/1347063578.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Lukas Schulze/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The squad’s big win made Julian Nagelsmann happy. </p> <p id="iIUHPf">When <a href="https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com">Bayern Munich</a> and Bayer Leverkusen took the pitch to start heir Bundesliga match, it was a game featuring the league’s two best squads — at least per their respective records. </p>
<p id="jawKIF">The ensuing contest, however, showed that <em>Die Werkself</em> have a lot of catching up to do to compete with Bayern Munich. <em>Die Roten</em> dusted Bayer Leverkusen, much to the delight of their manager Julian Nagelsmann. </p>
<p id="uBIyLu">“We could have even scored two or three more goals in the first half. We had an incredible number of opportunities. In the second half, a game went the way it did when you’re leading 5-0,” said Nagelsmann (as captured by <a href="https://www.tz.de/sport/fc-bayern/fc-bayern-muenchen-robert-lewandowski-julian-nagelsmann-bayer-leverkusen-reakionen-stimmen-91057353.html">Tz</a>). “Our entire midfield played an outstanding game. Leon had a somewhat unfamiliar position today, but he was a key player and kept getting into the final third.”</p>
<p id="76h7cM">One other aspect of the match that pleased Nagelsmann was his team’s ability to shake off a bumpy start. </p>
<p id="jiIBNs">“We didn’t have a good start to the game in the first few minutes, but the guys are focused on always wanting possession,” Nagelsmann said. </p>
<aside id="31GwBa"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Robert Lewandowski pleased with Bayern Munich’s dominant display in 5-1 win at Bayer Leverkusen","url":"https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/10/17/22731411/bayern-munich-bayer-leverkusen-robert-lewandowski-reaction-bundesliga-win-gnabry-muller-nagelsmann"}]}'></div></aside><p id="aaVt18"></p>
https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/10/17/22731493/julian-nagelsmann-bayern-munich-bundesliga-bayer-leverkusen-lewandowski-muller-kimmich-gnabry-daviesCSmith19192021-04-21T06:00:01+02:002021-04-21T06:00:01+02:00Daily Schmankerl: The aftermath of Bayern Munich vs. Bayer Leverkusen; Bayern’s coaching shortlist includes Naglesmann, Allegri, Mourinho, Glasner, Löw, Rangnick, Ten Hag, Van Bommel and Wenger; plus MORE!
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<img alt="FC Bayern Muenchen v Bayer 04 Leverkusen - Bundesliga" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/VHapL6Xx1CTQuCqVuAS36YMqqk4=/0x1080:2273x2595/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/69160998/1313524131.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Christof Stache - Pool/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Bayern Munich won convincingly over Bayer Leverkusen.</p> <h2 id="8IiLJG"><a href="https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/4/20/22392370/bayern-munich-vs-bayer-leverkusen-lineups-live-stream-how-to-watch-bundesliga-updates-highlights"><strong>Die Folgen: Bayern’s 2-0 win over Leverkusen (Bavarian Football Works)</strong></a></h2>
<p id="8mtIJX"><a href="https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com">Bayern Munich</a> thoroughly dominated Bayer Leverkusen in a 2-0 victory. The Bavarians were never truly threatened and dispatched <em>Die Werkself</em> quite neatly. Here are some quick hitters on the match: </p>
<ul>
<li id="bjqX1S">Bayern Munich was absolutely dominant from the outset. The fast start was extremely impressive to see. </li>
<li id="NfR8Iy">Playing on short rest, Bayern Munich’s players looked far more energetic than they did on Saturday. The team might have found its legs after such a rigorous schedule. </li>
<li id="YF7TCh">Bayern’s first half goals were really nice. </li>
<li id="OJDbM8">The lofted pass from David Alaba to Thomas Muller resulted in a shot attempt which Lukas Hradecky blocked away. Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, however, hit home his follow for the early lead. </li>
<li id="laZpFe">Joshua Kimmich’s blast to the far corner was excellent as well. Bayer Leverkusen could ill-afford to Kimimich that kind of time and space and the 26-year-old made them pay mightily.</li>
<li id="CWztQe">Kimmich was masterful on the day. What a performance. </li>
<li id="J0hotL">Alphonso Davies, who had scuffled of late, looked far better against Bayer Leverkusen than he had at any point recently. </li>
<li id="0zFxqt">Jamal Musiala’s play is so mature for his age. He has already picked some of the subtle nuances of Bayern Munich’s floating positioning among the front four players. He drifted into pockets of space with aplomb and clearly has earned the trust of Flick to do so.</li>
<li id="HuYXzv">Kingsley Coman, meanwhile, looked livelier at times, but was not sharp. I’d say it’s time to give him a full game off and maybe a few practice days. Something is not right with the Frenchman at this stage.</li>
<li id="zw9QSk">David Alaba also turned in a very good effort. For all of his ups-and-downs this season, Alaba is absolutely a valuable player and will do well with <a href="https://www.managingmadrid.com">Real Madrid</a> (if the report is true). </li>
<li id="HeHNQ1">Manuel Neuer was great and took care of everything that came his way (which admittedly was not a lot). </li>
<li id="Uumyz9">Leon Goretzka needs to shake off a little rust. Goretzka looked like he was trying to catch up with the game’s speed at times. I’d anticipate he’ll back to normal by the weekend. </li>
<li id="C03msF">I am 100% convinced that Leroy Sane needs some downtime. He doesn’t look right and his confidence appears to be shaken. His shooting form is off as well and is creating so many airmailed attempts. </li>
<li id="hhRL7n">Jerome Boateng was up-and-down.</li>
<li id="nLv0CY">I will say this...I will miss watching Hansi Flick coach. His positive influence on so many players had been a real treat to watch. Here is to hoping he can have the same influence over Germany as he did with Bayern Munich. </li>
</ul>
<p id="BeQrid">If you missed our <a href="https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/4/21/22394606/bayern-munich-match-awards-bundesliga-alphonso-davies-joshua-kimmich-jamal-musiala-hansi-flick">Match Awards</a>, <a href="https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/4/20/22394309/bayern-munich-observations-match-analysis-bayer-leverkusen-bundesliga-jamal-musiala-germany">Observations</a>, or <a href="https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/4/20/22394568/bpw-postgame-show-bayern-munich-wins-2-0-against-bayer-04-leverkusen-all-but-guarantees-bundesliga">Postgame Podcast</a>, give them a look or a listen: </p>
<div id="MHNF8X"><iframe src="https://player.megaphone.fm/VMP5177857874" style="border: 0; width: 100%; height: 200px;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media"></iframe></div>
<aside id="YDOfsD"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Match awards from Bayern Munich’s huge 2-0 win over Bayer 04 Leverkusen","url":"https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/4/21/22394606/bayern-munich-match-awards-bundesliga-alphonso-davies-joshua-kimmich-jamal-musiala-hansi-flick"},{"title":"Three observations from Bayern Munich’s impressive 2-0 win over Bayer Leverkusen","url":"https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/4/20/22394309/bayern-munich-observations-match-analysis-bayer-leverkusen-bundesliga-jamal-musiala-germany"},{"title":"BPW Postgame Show: Bayern Munich wins 2-0 against Bayer 04 Leverkusen; all but guarantees Bundesliga title","url":"https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/4/20/22394568/bpw-postgame-show-bayern-munich-wins-2-0-against-bayer-04-leverkusen-all-but-guarantees-bundesliga"}]}'></div></aside><h2 id="TqBmGA"><a href="https://www.tz.de/sport/fc-bayern/fc-bayern-muenchen-hansi-flick-trainer-bayer-leverkusen-stimmen-thomas-mueller-90468280.html"><strong>Flick in the dark on Alaba rumor (Tz)</strong></a></h2>
<p id="RNGZdW">The report stating that David Alaba had signed a deal with <a href="https://www.managingmadrid.com">Real Madrid</a> broke during Bayern Munich’s game, but Flick said after the game that the Austrian defender did not mention anything to him: </p>
<p id="AjPWBu">“He hasn’t told me anything yet,” Flick said. “You can tell me a lot about that. He will tell me when the time comes.”</p>
<aside id="NxN2IJ"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Sky: David Alaba has agreed to join Real Madrid","url":"https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/4/20/22394389/david-alaba-transfer-news-rumors-bayern-munich-real-madrid-barcelona"}]}'></div></aside><h2 id="p6xedC"><a href="https://twitter.com/cfbayern/status/1384537499045879810?s=21"><strong>Spurs and Bayern to battle for Nagelsmann (@cfbayern)</strong></a></h2>
<p id="mgWVqr">According to Sport Bild chief reporter Christian Falk, <a href="https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com">Bayern Munich</a> and <a href="https://cartilagefreecaptain.sbnation.com">Tottenham Hotspur</a> are set to battle over RB Leipzig manager Julian Nagelsmann: </p>
<div id="EynB6e">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">TRUE ✅ as I told on Friday in our show. <a href="https://twitter.com/SpursOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SpursOfficial</a> is interested in Julian Nagelsmann, Manager of <a href="https://twitter.com/DieRotenBullen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DieRotenBullen</a> - but also FC Bayern is interested. And: Bayern is his favorite <a href="https://t.co/bxWXorOEeY">pic.twitter.com/bxWXorOEeY</a></p>— Christian Falk (@cfbayern) <a href="https://twitter.com/cfbayern/status/1384537499045879810?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2021</a>
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<p id="aw8YMf">Barring some sort of upset, it seems that Bayern Munich would be the favorite to bring in Nagelsmann. </p>
<aside id="hXA5xp"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Could unrest with Jose Mourinho at Tottenham cause them to swoop in for Julian Nagelsmann?","url":"https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/4/18/22390606/bayern-munich-hansi-flick-announcement-leave-club-tottenham-julian-nagelsmann-jose-mourinho-kane-son"}]}'></div></aside><h2 id="rK5noz"><a href="https://www.transfermarketweb.com/?action=read&idsel=213196"><strong>Ten Hag and Van Bommel on Bayern’s shortlist (Transfer Market Web)</strong></a></h2>
<p id="qy5K22">In addition to Nagelsmann, Bayern Munich is reportedly taking a close look at Ajax boss Erik Ten Hag and Mark Van Bommel, who is an assistant coach for the United Arab Emirates national team.</p>
<p id="Xkfylz">Interestingly, some other names on the list are quite familiar: Massimiliano Allegri, José Mourinho, Oliver Glasner, Joachim Löw, Ralf Rangnick, and Arséne Wenger:</p>
<blockquote>
<p id="G19iRP">While in alleged advanced talks with current RB Leipzig manager Julian Nagelsmann, Bayern Munich top brass, according to Sky Sport Deutschland, are screening Ajax head coach Erik ten Hag, as well as former player of theirs Mark Van Bommel.</p>
<p id="ZoNQ5F">Besides, more names listed in the even of replacing Hansi Flick are: Massimiliano Allegri, José Mourinho, Oliver Glasner, Joachim Löw, Ralf Rangnick, and Arséne Wenger.</p>
</blockquote>
<p id="3uvwyo">This is all seems like a smokescreen. I believe Nagelsmann is the one — and only — candidate that matter to Bayern Munich.</p>
<aside id="Z401dx"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Bayern Munich will be fine without Hansi Flick","url":"https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/4/21/22389586/bayern-munich-coach-hansi-flick-brazzo-hasan-salihamidzic-nagelsmann-guardiola-heynckes-van-gaal"}]}'></div></aside><h2 id="G8sCOU"><a href="https://twitter.com/dw_sports/status/1384456804869058561?s=20"><strong>More fans are Pro Flick (@dw_sports)</strong></a></h2>
<p id="HE9RLl">In the battle of Hansi Flick vs. Hasan “Brazzo” Salihamidzic, it appears that many fans (at least 21,000 who would put their name to it) would prefer that Bayern Munich sack Brazzo instead of letting Flick walk:</p>
<div id="d90GC4">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr"> Bayern Munich fans have started a petition "pro Hansi Flick, Brazzo raus." <br><br>The petition demands the club commit to Flick long-term as head coach and sack Hasan Salihamidzic as head of sport if he doesn't resign on his own.<br><br>The petition has more than 21,000 signatures. ✍️ <a href="https://t.co/r6adKWFp4h">pic.twitter.com/r6adKWFp4h</a></p>— DW Sports (@dw_sports) <a href="https://twitter.com/dw_sports/status/1384456804869058561?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2021</a>
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<p id="dPtZGF">I’m pro-Flick. Always will be. It doesn’t mean I don’t like or respect Hasan “Brazzo” Salihamidzic, but I place a high value on coaches...especially coaches who show the ability meld a team together.</p>
<aside id="TuGSD6"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Hansi Flick wants to leave Bayern Munich — follow all the latest news and updates here!","url":"https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/4/18/22390333/hansi-flick-bayern-munich-hasn-brazzo-salihamidzic-thomas-muller-manuel-neuer-germany-joachim-low"}]}'></div></aside><h2 id="aoo5U7"><a href="https://twitter.com/GaryLineker/status/1384442428610985985?s=20"><strong>Bayern earning raves for ESL stance (@GaryLineker)</strong></a></h2>
<p id="rJoSBW">Gary Lineker is among the many pundits praising Bayern Munich for their stance in shunning the European Super League (you know, before <a href="https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/4/21/22394315/european-super-league-manchester-city-real-madrid-united-bayern-munich-chelsea-fc-barcelona">it blew up</a>): </p>
<div id="uDqECv">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">A proper football club. History will look back very favourably at <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBayernEN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FCBayernEN</a>. <a href="https://t.co/762hB9KZjd">https://t.co/762hB9KZjd</a></p>— Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker) <a href="https://twitter.com/GaryLineker/status/1384442428610985985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2021</a>
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<aside id="BuZ9XY"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Official: Bayern Munich says NO to the European Super League!","url":"https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/4/20/22393722/bayern-munich-european-super-league-manchester-united-barcelona-real-madrid-karl-heinz-rummenigge"},{"title":"An Ode to the European Super League: Gone before we knew yah","url":"https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/4/21/22394315/european-super-league-manchester-city-real-madrid-united-bayern-munich-chelsea-fc-barcelona"}]}'></div></aside><h2 id="X1TPYb"><a href="https://twitter.com/tsghoffenheimEN/status/1384483780484898818?s=20"><strong>Hoffenheim making a strong push to keep Richards (@tsghoffenheimEN)</strong></a></h2>
<p id="kFrmOq">Hoffenheim knows it has a gem in Bayern Munich loanee Chris Richards and <em>Achtzehn99</em> is going to try and smooth Richards over as much as possible to convince him to stay longer — or permanently: </p>
<div id="MQxiFD">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">"Chris <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Richards?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Richards</a> arrived relatively inexperienced. But he has shown from the off that he can make it in the Bundesliga. I have known him a long time and it is extremely fun to work with him."<br><br> ️ Sebastian <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hoene%C3%9F?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hoeneß</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TSGBMG?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TSGBMG</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/eastmamba?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@eastmamba</a> <a href="https://t.co/5rul5k28h6">pic.twitter.com/5rul5k28h6</a></p>— TSG Hoffenheim EN (@tsghoffenheimEN) <a href="https://twitter.com/tsghoffenheimEN/status/1384483780484898818?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2021</a>
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<p id="4sGPUy">I’ve said it a million times, but I was convinced on Richards the minute I saw him step on to the pitch in Philadelphia against <a href="https://www.blackwhitereadallover.com">Juventus</a>. That kid should have been at least a bit nervous, but played like he’d been taking the pitch with Arjen Robben, Javi Martinez, and Franck Ribery for years. </p>
<p id="x7AR2H">Sometimes you just know...and occasionally even a dope like me is right.</p>
<aside id="LDNyGK"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Hoffenheim wants Bayern Munich loanee Chris Richards to stay longer...or permanently","url":"https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/4/8/22373970/bayern-munich-hoffenheim-chris-richards-loan-transfer-david-alaba-jerome-boateng-niklas-sule"}]}'></div></aside><p id="yX5w01"></p>
https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/4/21/22393487/bayern-munich-bayer-leverkusen-naglesmann-allegri-mourinho-glasner-low-rangnick-ten-hag-wengerCSmith19192021-04-21T00:05:00+02:002021-04-21T00:05:00+02:00Match awards from Bayern Munich’s huge 2-0 win over Bayer 04 Leverkusen
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<img alt="FC Bayern Muenchen v Bayer 04 Leverkusen - Bundesliga" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/_gUSZ6le4aHOxuKSFDuJeuKZk_I=/54x0:2946x1928/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/69159714/1313528969.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Christof Stache - Pool/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The Bavarians are now just three points away from the Meisterschale.</p> <p id="i0amHC"><a href="https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com">Bayern Munich</a> took one step closer to their 9th consecutive Bundesliga title with a 2-0 win over Bayer 04 Leverkusen. Here’s who stood out.</p>
<h1 id="m6YSSs">Jersey Swap: Lukas Hradecky</h1>
<p id="0FQDqX">Bayer’s goalkeeper didn’t have his best game today, but he did have a better one than his teammates. He was the main reason why Bayern did not manage to score a single goal in the second half. True, he was slightly at fault for the first goal when he spilled Thomas Muller’s close range shot for Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting to pounce on, but other than that, he was not at fault for much. If it wasn’t for him in goal, the game would have ended with a lot more convincing scoreline to the home side. </p>
<h1 id="RbZfRN">Der Kaiser: Alphonso Davies</h1>
<p id="q7bd7N">Bayer have some of the fastest attackers in the Bundesliga, and it showed today. The likes of Moussa Diaby and Leon Bailey were constantly bombarding Bayern’s flanks with their runs. Fortunately, they were ultimately unsuccessful, many thanks to Alphonso Davies. The Canadian youngster has been getting back to form late in the season after a slightly slow start, and his full talent was on show today. His speed was on top, clocking up over 35km/h. Naturally, he was named the fastest player of the match. He was shutting down counterattacks left right and center, and dare I say, we were treated to the raw talent that made us Bayern fans fall in love with him in the first place. </p>
<h1 id="HGPU0E">Der Fußballgott: Joshua Kimmich</h1>
<p id="SgZLQT">Bayern’s midfield trio was pretty impressive today, and made sure that the team had a firm grip in the middle of the park for 90 minutes. Kimmich was the standout performer among those three, and not just because he scored a goal. He was cutting passes here and there and spraying good balls forward at will. If David Alaba was the defensive anchor for this game, Kimmich was a typical deep-lying playmaker, dictating the play from deep in midfield. And of course, I know I said this wasn’t the only reason, but his goal was very well taken as well. A finish that Robert Lewandowski would have been proud of. It’s astonishing how Kimmich has been playing every game due to Bayern’s thin squad, yet still manages to produce performances like these week in week out. </p>
<h1 id="LmMmIA">Der Bomber: Jamal Musiala</h1>
<p id="HW1aSs">My, this kid is special. Getting a second consecutive start from his MOTM winning performance vs Wolfsburg, Musiala picked up exactly where he left off and continued to dazzle. His slick skills and fancy footwork were on show from kickoff until he was subbed off. He was mainly positioned on the flank, but also drifted into a more central position when Muller was pushing forward, and he did not look out of place in both positions. The main gripe I had with Musiala today is that he didn’t manage to score, because he really did deserve a goal. But even without a goal to his name, Musiala proved that he is indeed a very talented player, and that he fully deserved to start this game. Will he start against Mainz on Saturday as well? I wouldn’t be surprised one bit if he does.</p>
<h1 id="ZVD0Bo">Meister of the Match: Hansi Flick</h1>
<p id="a5MQUG">Hear me out.</p>
<p id="orCPW7">Flick’s week has most likely been pretty hectic, what with his bombshell announcement this past weekend about his wish to leave the club at the end of the season. Hey, it sure was a crazy week for Bayern fans all over the world, so I can only imagine how crazy it’s been for the man responsible. The reason I’m naming him MOTM is because of how professionally he’s handling the situation, and by that I mean not letting his future get in the way of his present. If you look at some other coaches across the Bundesliga this season, say Adi Hutter and Marco Rose, both their respective teams hit quite a few roadblocks after their departure was announced. Whether that be attributed to lack of motivation or something else, it was not a good sign for Flick and his team with a tough Leverkusen team coming up in just a few days. But Flick remained focused and got his team a win, taking the title race in a firm grasp. He apparently told the team before the game that they could take a big step towards their goal, which they did. I really hope we can win the league and celebrate one final trophy with one of the greatest coaches in the club’s history.</p>
<h1 id="08UNKa">One-sentence ratings for the rest</h1>
<p id="yCpnGA">Neuer: Made a number of decent saves and kept a clean sheet. 7/10</p>
<p id="pwQHYW">Pavard: Ran up and down a lot and wasn’t bullied by Bailey’s pace. 6/10</p>
<p id="xmEIgZ">Boateng: Wasn’t too bad but some decisions were a bit rash. 6/10</p>
<p id="Rx8gKw">Hernandez: Didn’t have too much to do but did what he had to. 6/10</p>
<p id="PcwOg7">Alaba: Was very good in defensive midfield and played a crucial role in the goals. 7/10</p>
<p id="XwbybD">Muller: Quiet for his standards, but more or less assisted the opener. 6/10</p>
<p id="CWEZ8i">Coman: Finishing was poor and crossing was average. 5/10</p>
<p id="iCK1pm">Choupo-Moting: Scored the opener and got another chalked off for being an inch offside. 7/10</p>
<p id="SioRRC">Sane: Decent moves but horrible finishing again. 5/10</p>
<p id="odznzp">Nianzou: Showed glimpses of his talent. 6/10</p>
<p id="kopvzc">Goretzka: Got into some good positions. 6/10</p>
<p id="RTl9nE">Sarr: Wasn’t troubled that much. 5/10</p>
<p id="h9VFjB">Scott: Looked lively and got a few shots. 6/10</p>
<p id="OcqQnx">Whole Team: Good win, now let’s do it one more time and win the league. 8/10</p>
<p id="bZfhtd"><em>Davies 7/10, Kimmich 8/10, Musiala 8/10, Flick 9/10</em></p>
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https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/4/21/22394606/bayern-munich-match-awards-bundesliga-alphonso-davies-joshua-kimmich-jamal-musiala-hansi-flickTeddySonMaverick2021-04-20T23:54:38+02:002021-04-20T23:54:38+02:00Three observations from Bayern Munich’s impressive 2-0 win over Bayer Leverkusen
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<img alt="FC Bayern Muenchen v Bayer 04 Leverkusen - Bundesliga" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/4XL7BgivzjGJFBY-34SmaSGflP4=/0x0:3176x2117/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/69159624/1313515861.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Lukas Barth-Tuttas - Pool/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Bayern Munich were nearly back to their best as they dominated and remained defensively intact for the majority of the match.</p> <h2 id="H34IP5">Jamal Musiala is a gem</h2>
<p id="TRMLV3">A strong case can be made that <a href="https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com">Bayern Munich</a> have the best crop of wingers in Europe but at present, all four of them might blush scarlet at the 18-year-old Jamal Musiala’s flair on the ball. With six goals to his name in the league so far, Musiala lights up the field whenever he gets the chance, dazzling past opponents with technique beyond his years. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr"> Jamal Musiala (18) v. Leverkusen:<br><br>☑️ 82 minutes<br> 2 key passes<br> 6/8 dribbles won<br>⚔️ 12 duels won<br>❌ 4 interceptions<br> 8 ball recoveries<br> 3 fouls suffered<br> 72 touches<br> 2-0 win<br><br>This kid is something else. <a href="https://t.co/cCOUBvKm82">pic.twitter.com/cCOUBvKm82</a></p>— Football Wonderkids (@fbwonderkids) <a href="https://twitter.com/fbwonderkids/status/1384609815431843841?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2021</a>
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<p id="ol2UWb">While the Germany international’s artistry on the ball has received plaudits, the way he reacts immediately after losing the ball is an equally remarkable quality of his. Musiala runs without the ball like a man possessed. He thinks of ways to suffocate opponents at every step and this is reflected in his persistent movements. After earning the ‘Meister of the match’ in his previous game, the youngster picked up right where he left off and delivered another promising performance.</p>
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<h2 id="IaYis7">An improved defensive display</h2>
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<cite>Photo by Christof Stache - Pool/Getty Images</cite>
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<p id="qcMjBF">It was a relatively improved outing from <em>Die Roten</em> in terms of collective defending. Although the backline was left unshielded on various instances, the pivot of Joshua Kimmich and David Alaba tracked back swiftly and the whole defensive unit was able to fend off danger for the vast majority of the match. </p>
<p id="8aHeJw">With a bunch of games under his belt, Alaba looked absolutely at home in his favourite position. Joshua Kimmich back to his usual self while dictating the play for his side. Lucas Hernandez and Alphonso Davies continued their string of impressive displays. Leverkusen’s offense grew as the match progressed but the Bavarians remained steadfast in the defensive third and kept a clean sheet.</p>
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<h2 id="G39Mtj">Football as it’s meant to be.</h2>
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<p lang="eu" dir="ltr"> ️ "MIA SAN MIA"<br><br> ⚪ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FCBB04?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FCBB04</a> | 2:0 <a href="https://t.co/vwap6CZZlN">pic.twitter.com/vwap6CZZlN</a></p>— FC Bayern US (@FCBayernUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBayernUS/status/1384581847305232385?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2021</a>
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<p id="0MBy2t">It has been a turbulent and tiring week for fans of European football, with the saga revolving around the formation of a breakaway Super league sending shockwaves all around the world. But tonight, my deep love for the Bundesliga grew even stronger.</p>
<p id="3azeGz">I take great pleasure in watching everything that is associated with the German league, be it those little things like Bundesliga’s goosebumps-worthy advertisement music or tactical aspects, such as off-the-ball movement, gegenpress-ing etc, which are unique to German football. Nothing beats the elegance and culture of the Bundesliga. Bayern Munich’s clash with Bayer Leverkusen was simply another moment for me to consider myself fortunate to be associated with one of the best leagues in the world.</p>
https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/4/20/22394309/bayern-munich-observations-match-analysis-bayer-leverkusen-bundesliga-jamal-musiala-germanyRaumdeuter#252021-04-20T23:53:23+02:002021-04-20T23:53:23+02:00BPW Postgame Show: Bayern Munich wins 2-0 against Bayer 04 Leverkusen; all but guarantees Bundesliga title
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<figcaption>Hansi Flick is edging closer to his second Bundesliga title as Bayern manager | Photo by Christof Stache - Pool/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting and Joshua Kimmich scored as Bayern Munich recorded a 2-0 victory over Bayer 04 Leverkusen, all but winning the Bundesliga title</p> <p id="1yNhXy"><a href="https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com">Bayern Munich</a> recorded a stylish 2-0 victory over Bayer 04 Leverkusen; this match had none of the drama of the reverse fixture in which Leverkusen went up by a goal from Patrick Schick but conceded soon after; a Robert Lewandowski goal in injury time in the second half handed Leverkusen their first defeat in the league in the season in that game and since then, things haven’t looked great for die Werkself.</p>
<p id="SWpU4h">Bayern made only one change from the game against Wolfsburg, bringing in Kingsley Coman for Leroy Sané. The goals for Bayern came from Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting and Joshua Kimmich in a solid display. Leverkusen didn’t offer too much until late in the second half when Karim Bellarabi came on and Nadiem Amiri came on.</p>
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<blockquote><p id="o9Ql3F">FT: Bayern Munich 2-0 Bayer 04 Leverkusen<br>Bayern Stats: 61% possession, 23 shots, 8 SOG, 90% passing<br>Leverkusen Stats: 39% possession, 7 shots, 4 SOG, 83% passing<br>*Leon Goretzka came back for this one. Serge Gnabry and Robert Lewandowski are not back yet.<br>*Stats from <a href="https://www.whoscored.com/Matches/1536179/Live/Europe-Champions-League-2020-2021-Paris-Saint-Germain-Bayern-Munich"><strong>whoscored.com</strong></a></p></blockquote>
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https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2021/4/20/22394568/bpw-postgame-show-bayern-munich-wins-2-0-against-bayer-04-leverkusen-all-but-guarantees-bundesligaSamrin_TwinkleFCB