FC Bayern kicked off their final preparations for the first competitive fixture of 2023 as they returned to training on Monday. Julian Nagelsmann and his team start the year away at RB Leipzig on Friday (20:30 CET). The ex-Leipzig boss welcomed his current charges on the training ground at Säbener Straße at 10:07 as they start working towards the Bundesliga’s resumption.
Matthijs de Ligt completed the majority of Monday morning training with the squad.
Sane absent with illness
Leroy Sane was on the scoresheet in last Friday’s 4-4 draw with Red Bull Salzburg but missed Monday’s training with a stomach bug. However, defender Matthijs de Ligt was able to complete parts of the 70-minute session after overcoming an ankle problem. And apart from the notable long-term absentees Sadio Mane, Manuel Neuer, Lucas Hernandez, Bouna Sarr and Noussair Mazraoui, every other player was present.
11 wins on the spin?
After warming up in crisp winter conditions, Nagelsmann had his players working on match scenarios as the team look to make it 11 wins in a row in all competitions on Friday. Victory in Leipzig would move Bayern nine points clear of their opponents and title rivals. It would also open up a seven-point cushion on second-placed Freiburg, who take on Wolfsburg on Saturday.
🔙 Refresh your memory on how the campaign has gone so far:
