Following the shock announcement of Thomas Tuchel’s departure at the end of the season, Bayern Munich face a crucial test against RB Leipzig on Saturday. This decision, seemingly a compromise between immediate dismissal and unwavering commitment despite recent struggles, puts pressure on the Bavarian giants to regain their form.
The 3-2 loss to Bochum on Sunday, leaving them eight points behind Xabi Alonso’s unbeaten Bayer Leverkusen, precipitated the Tuchel decision. Bayern hope this announcement will galvanize their squad, rumored to have strained relations with the coach.
Simultaneously, the club sets its sights on Alonso, a former Munich player, as Tuchel’s successor. This mirrors Bayern’s strategy of weakening rivals by acquiring their talent, exemplified by their interest in Alonso.
While Alonso declined to comment on the rumors, Bayern clearly aims to exploit any potential instability caused by these speculations, hoping to derail Leverkusen’s title aspirations. However, this tactic carries risks.
A poor result against Leipzig could further destabilize Bayern, especially if they are eliminated from the Champions League (trailing Lazio 1-0 after the first leg). Additionally, players critical of Tuchel might not magically change their stance solely due to his impending departure.
Historically considered Bayern’s main challengers, Borussia Dortmund, Leipzig has posed a significant threat in recent years. Bayern have only won four of their last 11 encounters with Leipzig and haven’t beaten them in the league since February 2022.
Sitting in fifth place, just one point behind Dortmund, Leipzig will be highly motivated. Forward Dani Olmo emphasized this, stating, “it is always special. Bayern of course are the opponents that motivate us.”
Bayern face a decisive match against Leipzig, carrying the burden of both Tuchel’s departure and the potential for further instability. A positive result could signify a recovery, while a negative one could trigger a downward spiral, jeopardizing their title hopes and Champions League aspirations.
One to watch: Dani Olmo (RB Leipzig)
RB Leipzig forward Dani Olmo will be a familiar sight to Bayern Munich defenders when the two sides clash on [date]. Olmo’s hat-trick in the DFL-Supercup back in August served as a painful reminder of his attacking prowess, and with Leipzig currently vying for a top-four finish, the Spaniard will be looking to replicate his previous performance.
Despite missing a significant portion of the season due to injury, Olmo has returned to play a crucial role in Marco Rose’s side’s resurgence. Reflecting on his Supercup heroics, Olmo stated, “It was a perfect game from all of us and for me individually, to score three goals there in Munich and win a Cup trophy. But of course we have to keep going. Football does not stand still and now we have another chance to play at the Allianz.”
Olmo’s words highlight both his individual ambition and Leipzig’s collective determination. While acknowledging the significance of the Supercup victory, he emphasizes the need for continued focus as the season progresses. This upcoming match against Bayern presents another opportunity for Leipzig to showcase their capabilities, and Olmo will undoubtedly be a key figure in their pursuit of victory.