Bayern Munich is facing issues with their left-back position as Alphonso Davies is once again sidelined due to injury.
Despite securing a 3-2 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt and extending their lead over Borussia Dortmund to eight points in the Bundesliga, the team has suffered a setback.
The club confirmed last Sunday that Davies has a torn muscle fiber in his right hamstring.
Candidates to Replace Davies
Bayern Munich has several options to address this left-back situation, though none are naturally positioned for the role.
Josip Stanišić is one possible candidate; he is adaptable enough to play in various defensive roles but is most comfortable on the right side.
Another option is Konrad Laimer, a midfielder who primarily plays as a right-back.
Hiroki Itō, a central defender, might also step in to fill the gap left by Davies for the match against Dortmund.
A young midfielder, Tom Bischof, has also occasionally played as a left-back this season, though he has faced challenges against tougher opponents during Davies’ previous recovery.
Coach Vincent Kompany may also consider Raphaël Guerreiro, who can play left-back, left wing, or even in midfield. However, he has seen limited action lately, mostly coming off the bench.
Guerreiro’s contract expires at the end of the season, and no decisions have been made regarding his future.
He might still have a chance to prove his value to Bayern. The ongoing left-back issue could provide him the opportunity he needs.
Nonetheless, it seems likely that Kompany will opt for Itō in the upcoming match against Dortmund for added defensive strength against a formidable opponent.