In search of a third consecutive Bundesliga title, FC Bayern München are the favourites to win the German league. Six starters for the Bavarians also played a big part in Germany's World Cup victory, and they have strengthened their squad with a few key additions, like striker Robert Lewandowski from rivals Borussia Dortmund. In their season opener, they face a stiff test in Wolfsburg, who should compete for a Champions League place this season.
Bayern Munich vs. Wolfsburg: Preview and TV Schedule
Bundesliga holders FC Bayern kick off the new season at home against Wolfsburg
Lars Baron
Key Player- Arjen Robben (FC Bayern)
Bayern have an abundance of attacking talent, but when Robben is in-form he is nearly unstoppable. The Dutchman had three goals and three assists in Brazil as the Netherlands finished third this summer, and will be expected to continue to play at a very high level. He will challenge Wolfsburg’s defensive organisation when he cuts in from the right wing in order to shoot on his favoured left foot.
Key Matchup- Bayern’s possession play vs. Wolfsburg’s counter
Even before Pep Guardiola arrived in Munich, Bayern didn't have problems controlling games with their passing play. Since he has been manager though, some teams have found it nearly impossible to get any of the ball. Wolfsburg's whole team will have to be organised and try to win the ball in decent positions to spring the counter, since it is virtually the only way to play against the champions.
Luiz Gustavo is a solid defensive midfielder who will be looking to break up the play and get the ball forward to dangerman Kevin De Bruyne. Wolfsburg have some options at striker as well, with Ivica Olić, Bas Dost, and newly signed Nicklas Bendtner all available for manager Dieter Hecking.
Bayern injuries and suspensions:
Out: Bastian Schweinsteiger (knee), Javi Martinez (knee), Thiago Alcantara (knee), Rafinha (ankle). Suspended: Jerome Boateng In doubt: none.
Wolfsburg injuries and suspensions:
Out: Ivan Perišić (shoulder). Probable: Diego Benaglio (flu).
A host of knee injuries have decimated Bayern’s midfield, with Martinez likely to miss almost the whole season. Bayern are in the market for a replacement, but this means we will see Philipp Lahm in midfield.
For Wolfsburg, Ivan Perišić underwent surgery after injuring his shoulder at the end of July in a preseason tournament. They will miss him going forward, and Vierinha should start in his place.
Match Date/Time: 8:30 p.m. local, 2:30 p.m. EST
Venue: Allianz Arena, Munich, Germany
TV: GOLTV USA, MyGermanTV+ (U.S.), GOLTV Canada (Canada), BT Sport 1 (U.K.), Sky Bundesliga 1/HD, Sport1.FM, ARD Das Erste (Germany)
Online: Sky Go, ARD Live Stream (Germany)
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