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Bayern Munich faces a massive Champions League test against Atlético Madrid, but Vincent Kompany’s side will travel to Spain dealing with an increasingly difficult injury situation. The question is whether Bayern has enough healthy players available to overcome one of Europe’s most difficult opponents, particularly away from home.
The injury list is becoming rather ridiculous. Ismael Saibari suffered a syndesmotic ligament tear in his right ankle against Borussia Dortmund and has already undergone surgery. According to Bild, he is expected to miss at least three months. Serge Gnabry also picked up a muscular injury in his left hamstring during Der Klassiker, ruling him out of the contest.
Michael Olise is another major concern after experiencing discomfort against Dortmund. He is scheduled for a fitness test before the team travels to Madrid, although Bayern is unwilling to take unnecessary risks with the Frenchman.
The existing absences make matters even worse. Luis Díaz remains sidelined with a muscle injury, Jamal Musiala is still working toward his return, Manuel Neuer continues to struggle with his foot problem, Kim Min-jae has knee issues, and Aleksandar Pavlović has been dealing with calf problems.
That is an enormous amount of quality missing or potentially unavailable, particularly in attack and midfield.
Harry Kane, Joshua Kimmich, Dayot Upamecano, and Michael Olise (if fit) will have enormous responsibilities. Bayern has the quality to beat Atlético, but Diego Simeone’s side will certainly look to exploit any weaknesses.
So, what do you think? Can Bayern overcome the injury crisis and come away from Madrid with all three points, or will the absences prove too much to overcome?