The FC Bayern pros had two days to recover from the rigours of the eight-day tour of China including jet lag, time changes and climatic conditions. The FCB squad returned to the training ground on Monday after the weekend off ahead of the first competitive game of the new season. The Reds face DFB Cup winners VfL Wolfsburg in the German Supercup final on Saturday (20:30 CET).
And there was some good news this morning: Arjen Robben returned to full training after ten days on the sidelines. The Dutchman, who missed the China tour due to a muscle problem, used his time in Munich to work on his fitness. “I was able to work really well and it’s all gone to plan in terms of getting in shape. I’m very happy,” said Robben after his first training session back with his team-mates.
Long-term absentees Franck Ribéry, Holger Badstuber and Jan Kirchhoff were missing as were Dante, Mehdi Benatia and Javi Martínez. The latter trio are working individually on their fitness as they gradually make their way back to full training. Benatia, who put in a light run on Monday, is due to make an imminent return while Dante and Martínez will have to wait a while.
Even without the recovering stars, Pep Guardiola was able to welcome 21 outfield players and four goalkeepers to the first training session of the week on Monday with 2,500 fans looking on. Over the next few days Guardiola will ensure his team is on course to register the first title win of the new season at the Volkswagen Arena on Saturday.
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