showdown in München

From all corners of the media, both in-depth scouting reports and shorter general commentary have focused purely on the match-ups on the pitch. This naturally is appropriate to a great deal but the internal match between Felix Magath and Jürgen Klinsmann and even a message of Felix Magath on tactical approach that he wasn’t able to fully implement at Bayern München is the more interesting consideration. For students of the game this is a rare match-up where tactical play mixes with turning the screw of a team you thirst to see go down.

As Wolfsburg approaches the match they are still unsure if Grafite will have returned from Brazil where he is grieving the passing of his father. Given the clubs commentary I have to assume he will not be available and will be replaced by Ashkan Dejagah and paired with Edin Džeko. Bayern is facing a massive series of injuries most notably Philipp Lahm and late scratch Luca Toni who re-injured bruised ribs in the Champions League.

Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge recognized the match lead-up:

“Let’s not forget just how dramatically Wolfsburg have invested in recent years. They’re pushing really hard, and they have a team that has to be taken seriously. It won’t be easy on Saturday, but I’m very optimistic, and I’m convinced we’ll win.”

Both clubs are riding waves of optimism after victories and will be looking to send a clear-cut message.

I will report on the match as it concludes

Category: Wolfsburg Team News

Tags: Ashkan Dejagah, Bayern München, Edin Džeko, Felix Magath, Grafite, Jürgen Klinsmann, Luca Toni, Philipp Lahm, Wolfsburg Team News

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