It was a moment in the 1-0 victory in the friendly against Olympique Marseille on Friday that brought a smile to the lips of everyone at FC Bayern. 286 days after Niklas Süle tore his cruciate ligament in the Bundesliga match at FC Augsburg in October 2019, the 24-year-old returned to the pitch at the Audi Football Summit. After a good nine and a half months of waiting, coach Hansi Flick brought him onto the pitch in the 61st minute, replacing fellow central defender Jérôme Boateng.
Joy for everyone at FCB
"We're all very happy to have him back on the pitch. He worked hard to get himself back and so it's a great day for him and for us," said the Bayern coach happily - and the returning player himself was also pleased: "I'm happy to be back on the pitch with my team-mates," said Süle.
A very bitter moment. On 19 October 2019, Süle tore his cruciate ligament in the Bundesliga match in Augsburg.
During the game it looked as though he had never been away. Hardly challenged defensively in a strong Bayern performance, he proved his skill in possession and build-up play, and in just under 30 minutes on the field, he completed an outstanding 40 of 41 passes. "When you play your first game after nine and a half months, it's clear that not all the technicalities are right and the sharpness is not yet there, but I feel very, very good fitness-wise," the Germany international said, remaining modest, and continuing to work hard.
More options for Flick
Almost back to his old self: Süle was as he always is against Marseille and was adept on the ball.
"I did a good job. Of course, I need playing minutes to regain my old strength and then take the next step forward in the next few weeks," Süle continued, immediately indicating his view on upcoming tasks in the Champions League: "When I'm needed, I'll be there." When exactly, it is not yet possible to say - but Bayern are facing decisive weeks ahead and one thing in particular is important: "For us, he now represents another option," Flick said enthusiastically.
Re-live the most important moments from the game against Marseille:
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