After training in arctic conditions for days, the Bavarians began their final preparations for Sunday's match away to Freiburg in significantly warmer temperatures on Friday. On a less positive note, they were without Franck Ribery. The Frenchman was out of action with a bout of gastroenteritis and will not travel to Freiburg.
"It's clear he won't be available on Sunday," said Jupp Heynckes, who hopes the Frenchman "can train with the team on Monday." James Rodriguez too might resume the full programme on Monday after recovering from a calf problem. The Colombian returned to the training ground on Thursday after being sidelined for a week. He continues to make progress in his individual rehab programme.
Coman's injury a 'bitter setback'
Manuel Neuer (broken metatarsal) and Kingsley Coman, who sustained a syndesmosis ligament tear last weekend, will also miss out against Freiburg. "I have to be honest, I was shocked because I hadn't expected his injury to be so bad," revealed Heynckes, calling Coman's injury a "bitter setback. He's shown very positive development and indicated his full potential in some matches."
Heynckes left open who would feature as left winger with Coman and Ribery both sidelined. The FCB head coach mentioned Thiago, Juan Bernat and others as alternatives, but he has yet make a decision: "I have to think about how I assemble the team."
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