With Kingsley Coman (inner ligament rupture), FC Bayern have to cope with the second long-term loss on the attacking flank after Serge Gnabry. What alternatives does coach Thomas Tuchel have?
In the 3:2 win in Augsburg, Tuchel brought on Mathys Tel for Coman, who was injured early on. The 18-year-old Frenchman could get more chances in the starting eleven from now on, as he was unlucky to hit the post in Augsburg. However, Tuchel values him as a wild card, and Tel last scored on matchday 5 after a brilliant start to the season. Tel has fond memories of their upcoming opponents Mönchengladbach, however, as he scored the decisive 2:1 goal in the first half of the season – as a substitute, of course.
Chance for Müller?
It was nevertheless an indication that Tuchel opted for Tel and against Thomas Müller. The veteran had to wait until the 89th minute to make his appearance and then even conceded a penalty. Müller has clearly lost influence on the pitch under Tuchel, i.e. minutes played. Nevertheless, he would be the logical alternative to Coman. The 34-year-old is no stranger to the position on the right wing, but he could interpret it differently, moving more into the half-spaces and towards goal from there. Or Tuchel could bring him on as a ten and move Jamal Musiala to the wing, where he could shine with his dribbling skills just as well as in the center
Tuchel has three more options. Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, usually back-up for Harry Kane, can also play on the left wing and has done so frequently in his career. Alphonso Davies began his career in this position before being converted to left-back. If he were to move forward, Raphael Guerreio would defend behind him. But with his fine technique, the Portuguese is also a candidate for more attacking positions. Either on the left or as a ten. Even in this variant, Musiala would have to switch to the wing.
So there’s no reason to complain, Tuchel still has plenty of options despite the injury problems. However, not much can happen now in view of the tight championship race with Bayer Leverkusen, the upcoming direct duel there on February 10 and the following first leg of the round of 16 in the Champions League at Lazio Rome on February 14.
