Champions League
“Figurehead” Neuer gives courage – Sané: Need energy
Is about to return to the goal: Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer. photo
© Sven Hoppe/dpa
With the return of captain Neuer and several outfield players, the selection for coach Tuchel is also increasing. Premier League expert Sané says what’s important against Arsenal.
The return of “Figurehead” Manuel Neuer and some outfield players around Leroy Sané are increasing FC Bayern’s confidence ahead of the quarter-final first leg at Arsenal.
“The boys are there, but it’s clear that they’re obviously not in the rhythm,” said sports director Max Eberl. They’re not at 100 percent, but maybe sometimes a few percent less is enough “to improve the structure of the team.”
Neuer, Sané, Kingsley Coman, Noussair Mazraoui and Aleksandar Pavlovic, who were recently missing, moved into the posh hotel The Landmark in London with their teammates. The many “aches and pains” and “injuries” also made it difficult this season, said Eberl before the game on Tuesday (9 p.m./Prime Video).
Neuer should “keep your back free”
Above all, the return of captain Neuer should help the recently shaky team. The 38-year-old should be in goal again instead of Sven Ulreich. “It wasn’t because of Ulle that we lost the games, but of course it’s always nice when you have Manuel Neuer as the figurehead, as the captain on the pitch, with all his presence, with all his experience, that of the boys too can keep your back to a certain extent,” said Eberl. “It’s always nice when the best are on the pitch.”
This also includes Sané in top form. “I’ve been feeling a lot better over the last few days, and everything was fine during training. I’m really looking forward to it,” said the winger. Coach Thomas Tuchel recently spoke of pubic bone inflammation. The former Manchester City professional looked forward to the duel with the Premier League leaders in a relaxed and good mood.
Sané: Need energy
“They are a very strong team, play aggressive football going forward, but are also very stable defensively,” said the 28-year-old. “We want to play a good game over 90 minutes, be focused and successful. We have to bring in energy and want to show our skills and qualities. We want to win the game.”