The Bundesliga title race is reaching a fever pitch, and this weekend’s clash between Bayern Munich vs Union Berlin could be a defining moment.
Vincent Kompany’s side are under immense pressure to maintain their lead at the top, but they face a Union Berlin team that has become notorious for upsetting the traditional heavyweights.
After a midweek European hangover, Bayern return to the Allianz Arena knowing that anything less than three points could open the door for the chasing pack.
Union Berlin, meanwhile, sit comfortably in the top half and have absolutely nothing to lose in Bavaria.
Bayern Munich Team News: Injury Woes for Kompany
The big story heading into Bayern Munich vs Union Berlin is the fitness of key personnel.
Vincent Kompany is sweating over the availability of several first-team stars following a bruising encounter in the Champions League.
The most significant blow is the loss of Aleksandar Pavlovic, who is set for a spell on the sidelines.
However, there is better news regarding the defensive line, with Kim Min-jae expected to lead the back four despite a minor knock.
Up front, Harry Kane remains the focal point as he chases yet another Golden Boot.
Union Berlin: The “Iron Ones” Aim for an Upset
Union Berlin arrive in Munich with a reputation for defensive solidity and clinical counter-attacking.
Under Bo Svensson, they have developed a “never say die” attitude that makes them a nightmare opponent for teams that like to dominate possession.
They will be without the suspended Christopher Trimmel, which likely means a start for Josip Juranovic at right-back.
The visitors will rely heavily on their set-piece prowess to test a Bayern defense that has looked shaky at times this season.
Predicted Lineups for Bayern Munich vs Union Berlin
Bayern Munich (4-2-3-1):
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GK: Manuel Neuer
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DEF: Raphael Guerreiro, Kim Min-jae, Dayot Upamecano, Alphonso Davies
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MID: Joshua Kimmich, Joao Palhinha
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AM: Jamal Musiala, Michael Olise, Serge Gnabry
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FWD: Harry Kane
Union Berlin (3-4-2-1):
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GK: Frederik Ronnow
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DEF: Danilho Doekhi, Kevin Vogt, Diogo Leite
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MID: Josip Juranovic, Rani Khedira, Andras Schafer, Robert Skov
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AM: Jeong Woo-yeong, Yorbe Vertessen
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FWD: Benedict Hollerbach
Bayern Munich vs Union Berlin: Key Stats & Match Facts
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0 – Union Berlin have never won a competitive match at the Allianz Arena, a record they are desperate to break this weekend.
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31 – The number of Bundesliga goals Harry Kane has already contributed to this season, highlighting his importance to the Bayern machine.
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5 – Union Berlin have kept five clean sheets in their last ten away games, proving they are a tough nut to crack on the road.
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82% – Bayern Munich’s average possession at home this season, suggesting Union will spend a lot of time behind the ball.
The Verdict: Can Union Hold Out?
While Union Berlin are masters of the “low block,” the sheer attacking quality of Jamal Musiala and Michael Olise usually finds a way through eventually.
However, if Bayern show any signs of fatigue from their European exploits, don’t be surprised if the Iron Ones snatch a point in what promises to be a fascinating encounter.
