Pep Guardiola "optimistic" over Franck Ribery fitness

Bayern Munich manager Pep Guardiola has said that he is "optimistic" over the fitness of winger Franck Ribery.

The 32-year-old started just nine Bundesliga matches last season, due to a number of injury problems.

There have been reports this summer that the Frenchman has considered retiring, but Guardiola has said that his situation has improved.

"He won't be ready for the first game of the season but it's getting better. I'm optimistic," Guardiola told reporters.

Ribery has spent the past eight years at Bayern and has helped them to win five Bundesliga titles and the Champions League.