Manchester United, a name synonymous with football glory, finds itself in an unexpected predicament. The team stands on the brink of elimination from the Champions League after securing just a single win in five games.
Despite taking early leads against Copenhagen and Galatasaray, they have squandered significant advantages that have cost them dearly in this competition. Even if they manage to triumph over Bayern Munich at Old Trafford, they would still need Copenhagen and Galatasaray to draw their match as both teams currently hold one-point advantage over them.
The Red Devils did manage to secure a 2-1 victory against Chelsea in a midweek clash but suffered a crushing 3-0 defeat by Bournemouth at the weekend - an apt summary of their inconsistent season so far.
On the other hand, Bayern Munich has had its share of setbacks too. They recently suffered their first defeat in Bundesliga - a humiliating 5-1 loss against Eintracht Frankfurt. However, when it comes to Champions League table this season, they've been nothing short of dominant with loss to their name.
Securing top spot in Group A with four wins and one draw (against Copenhagen on matchday 5), Bayern has already booked its place for the next round even before stepping onto Old Trafford's pitch.
Despite earning 13 points from five games so far - more than triple that of Manchester United - they will be visiting Old Trafford with the aim of restoring a much-needed sense of pride. The Bavarians will be looking to extend their unbeaten run in Champions League group-stage away games to 20 matches.
Manchester United vs Bayern Munich Team News
Manchester United, one of the most popular football clubs worldwide, is currently grappling with a significant injury crisis. The majority of their injured players are not expected to return to the field anytime soon.
Several key players from Manchester United have been sidelined due to various injuries: Lisandro Martinez (foot), Casemiro (thigh), Tyrell Malacia (knee), Christian Eriksen (knee), Amad Diallo (knee)
Manchester United possible starting lineup: Onana; Wan-Bissaka, Maguire, Varane, Shaw; McTominay, Mainoo; Antony, Fernandes, Rashford; Hojlund
Despite Amad Diallo's recent return to full training, he is expected to sit out for some more time. Additionally, Mason Mount and Victor Lindelof will require further assessments before they can participate in the upcoming match against Bayern Munich.
Jadon Sancho continues his spell away from the team due to ostracisation issues. However, there is some good news for Man United fans as Marcus Rashford - who has been benched so far this month - makes a comeback after serving a European ban.
Manager Ten Hag may consider recalling Rashford as part of several changes following their disappointing performance over the weekend. Other players like Kobbie Mainoo, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Rasmus Hojlund and potentially even Raphael Varane could also benefit from rotation within the squad.
Bayern Munich isn't without its share of injury concerns either. Their Bundesliga match at Frankfurt was particularly painful for Serge Gnabry who had only been on-field for five minutes before succumbing to a "major strain". This injury will keep him off-field indefinitely.
Bayern Munich possible starting lineup: Neuer; Laimer, Upamecano, Kim, Guerreiro; Goretzka, Kimmich; Musiala, Muller, Sane; Kane
Gnabry joins other injured teammates Matthijs de Ligt, Bouna Sarr, Gabriel Marusic and Tarek Buchmann on the sidelines. However, this could pave the way for Jamal Musiala to return to the starting XI.
Manchester United vs Bayern Munich Prediction
After a disappointing defeat by Bournemouth at Old Trafford, Manchester United is bracing for another challenging match. This time, the formidable Bayern Munich is set to take centre stage in what promises to be an intense encounter. The Red Devils' recent performance has raised concerns among fans and pundits alike, particularly with their backline's alarming rate of conceding goals - a trend that has been especially noticeable in European matches.
Ten Hag’s defensive line-up continues to be a significant concern for Manchester United. Despite their best efforts, they have been unable to stem the tide of goals against them. This vulnerability was glaringly evident during their recent match against Bournemouth where they suffered an unexpected loss on home soil.
The team's defensive woes are not limited to domestic matches; they have also been underperforming in Europe. Their inability to keep out goals has led many observers to predict that their continental adventure may come to an abrupt end.
Bayern Munich match presents another daunting challenge for the struggling Red Devils. Known for its aggressive playstyle and robust defence, Bayern is expected not only to exploit Man United’s weaknesses but also prolong their pain on home turf.
However, it would be remiss not only focusing on Man United’s struggles without acknowledging that even the Bavarians' defence might face some challenges as well.
Despite the odds stacked against them, Manchester United will undoubtedly go all out in pursuit of a potentially pivotal three points from this encounter with Bayern Munich. These points could serve as redemption following their humiliating defeat over the weekend and possibly turn around their fortunes this season.
Prediction: Manchester United 1-3 Bayern Munich
Manchester United vs Bayern Munich will be broadcast live on TV and online with TNT Sports 1 and TNT Sports Ultimate.
