Casemiro 
Tel, Mathys 
In the first game of the Champions League group stage, Bayern Munich will host Manchester United at the Allianz Arena with high spirits for the 2023/24 season.
Key Takeaways
- Bayern Munich have won against Manchester United in last two games
- Manchester United have suffered three losses in last 5 games
- Bayern Munich have only lost once in last 8 games
In a game that is expected to be exciting, both teams are going through contrasting phases. Manchester United is struggling at all fronts and searching for some momentum, while Bayern Munich is burning the candle at both ends with Harry Kane leading the attack.
Bayern Munich Form
Several big signings in the summer have made Bayern Munich very dangerous this season. Last season, they seemed really jaded under Thomas Tuchel, but this year they look really bright. RB Leipzig humiliated them in the Super Cup at the start of the season, but the whole team has shown incredible character since then.
The team is slowly transitioning into Tuchel's system now and things are coming together. In particular, with a striker like Harry Kane upfront, they look impeccable. Over the last four games, they have scored 11 goals. They do, however, need to improve their defense, since they have only kept one clean sheet so far.
Manchester United Form
Despite finishing on high last season, Manchester United are experiencing a nightmare start to the 2023/23 season. The injuries have been their biggest problem aside from their form on the pitch, as they are currently surrounded by many backlogs. Currently, there are eight injured players in the squad, as well as two unavailability due to internal disputes.
The situation looks bleak for United right now, but champion teams become stronger when things get tougher. A loss to Brighton in the last game has increased the pressure on the entire team. In order to win against Bayern Munich, United would have to put on their best face. An inspiring performance here could change the whole environment for the better.
Head-to-Head
Bayern Munich and Manchester United are two of the biggest names in world football, so their match is always the talk of the town. Despite being big names, both teams have not met much in the past. They have only met thrice in the last decade with two wins going to Bayern and one ending in a draw.
Team News
A major problem for Manchester United is injuries and the unavailability of key players. There are six injured players on the team, including Mainoo, Shaw, Amrabat, Heaton, Malacia, Wan-Bissaka. Sancho and Antony remain unavailable. Mount and Varane have returned to the training but are unlikely to start the game.
Bayern Munich does not have any major injury concerns, but they will be without three players. Neuer is still nursing a calf injury, Guerreiro is also nursing a calf injury, and Buchmann is out with a hamstring injury.
Key Players
In his four appearances, Harry Kane has scored four goals, and he appears to be the missing piece for Bayern Munich. With his arrival, the Bayern Munich attack looks well oiled and cohesive. Kane has hunted Manchester United with Spurs for years and now he is looking forward to showing his love for United.
The central figure of Manchester United, Bruno Fernandes, is once again under focus during this difficult time. Fernandes hasn't met expectations with only one goal and assist in the season, but for someone of his stature, things can change quickly. Fernandes will be looking to lead from the front and set the standards for the team.
Final Thoughts
As opposed to United, Bayern Munich seem to be a more settled unit at the moment. United is dealing with a number of issues both on and off the field. Bayern would like to make the most of their recent struggles and begin their Champions League campaign with a dominant win. Although Manchester United has struggled recently, you cannot rule them out since they can still punch above their weight on their day.
UEFA Champions League
Bundesliga
Premier League