Bayern Munich take on RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga on Saturday, with the two sides at the top of the table going head-to-head in what could prove to be a decisive match in the 2020-21 season.
After Bayern dropped points at home to Werder Bremen on the previous matchday, it was imperative that the Bavarians did not do so once more in a tough clash at Stuttgart last weekend, otherwise Leipzig could have moved level on points with them at the top of the Bundesliga.
As is so often the case, Hansi Flick's side did not disappoint with a well-fought 3-1 victory, with goals from Kingsley Coman, Robert Lewandowski and Douglas Costa sealing the three points.
Leipzig ground out a 2-1 win against Arminia Bielefeld, meanwhile, which ensured they can still move above their main title rivals by beating Bayern on Saturday.
Here, Sports Mole rounds up Bayern's latest injury and suspension news ahead of Saturday's Bundesliga clash with Julian Nagelsmann's side at Allianz Arena.
© Reuters
Status: Out
Type of injury: Knee
Possible return date: January 3 (vs. Mainz 05)
Joshua Kimmich sustained meniscus damage in a challenge with Erling Braut Haaland during the 3-2 win over Borussia Dortmund on November 6, with the 25-year-old having to be substituted in the first half as a result. The Germany midfielder was pictured running in training for the first time since his injury in training earlier this week, but is not expected to return to first-team action until the New Year.
© Reuters
Status: Out
Type of injury: Ankle
Possible return date: January 3 (vs. Mainz 05)
Alphonso Davies tore a ligament in his ankle in only the third minute of Bayern's 5-0 win over Eintracht Frankfurt on October 24, and has not featured since. The Canada left-back reportedly trained alongside Kimmich in a small group with fitness coach Simon Martinello but, like his teammate, Davies is not expected back until after the winter break.
Robert Lewandowski
© Reuters
Status: Minor doubt
Type of injury: Muscular
Possible return date: December 5 (vs. RB Leipzig)
Robert Lewandowski was rested in the 1-1 draw with Atletico Madrid in the Champions League in midweek, with the 32-year-old reportedly suffering from minor muscular issues. However, with Bayern already qualified as winners of the group, it is likely that Flick was simply resting his star striker (and will do again in the dead rubber against Lokomotiv Moscow next week), with the Pole returning to the first XI against Leipzig.
BAYERN'S SUSPENSION LIST
Bayern have no players suspended for the league contest.
Brett Curtis
