On Saturday evening (follow the action on fcbayern.com from 6:30 pm CET with our live text commentary and free web radio), FC Bayern have the chance to earn some genuinely crucial points. The defending champions host RB Leipzig in the weekend's top fixture, with the men from Saxony sitting just behind FCB in the standings. "Top of the table clashes are always special," said Hansi Flick on Friday, looking forward to the duel. Read all the important information about this game in our preview.
The situation for FC Bayern
Bayern are sitting where they feel most comfortable in the Bundesliga: at the top. But the situation is tight. Opponents Leipzig are lying in wait only two points behind. In the event of a home win, Manuel Neuer & Co. would not only chalk up three points, they would distance themselves from the chasing pack. "Champions always step up when big games are on the agenda. I expect my team to show they can play better than the last few weeks. Our goal is to take the three points in Munich. They would be huge points," said Flick.
Bayern made their final preparations for the game against Leipzig in training on Friday. View the best pictures in the gallery:
Opponents RB Leipzig
Leipzig missed out on qualification for the Champions League last 16 during the week. Reaching the knockout stage is still in their own hands thanks to a win against Istanbul Basaksehir, but the hard-fought 4-3 stoppage time victory may have taken its toll. Flick is certain this will not affect the duel at the Allianz Arena: "In this game - a special one for both teams - every player is highly motivated. It doesn't matter who played before and when. Both teams will try to give 100% on the pitch." Julian Nagelsmann's team have only suffered one defeat in the league (1-0 in Gladbach), as well as two draws and six wins.
Personnel, tactics and more: the press conference with Hansi Flick before the game against RB Leipzig:
Minute's silence for Kurt Hegerich & thanks to volunteers
Before the kick-off, FC Bayern will commemorate recently deceased former treasurer Kurt Hegerich with a minute's silence. The Reds will also play with black armbands. In addition, the entire Bundesliga matchday has the motto "Thank you volunteers". FC Bayern are also involved in this campaign.
Team news
Alphonso Davies has been able to train with the team again over the past few days, "but he won't be playing tomorrow," said Flick on Friday. In addition, the 55-year-old is without Corentin Tolisso and Joshua Kimmich. "If he had his way, he'd be playing for 60 minutes tomorrow. But we won't rush anything, and we'll be happy if he's back soon," said Flick, delighted with the Germany international's rehab.
Leipzig have a number of players rated doubtful after the show of strength in Istanbul, but can look forward to the return of Christopher Nkunku. Benjamin Henrichs (patellar tendonitis), Hee-chan Hwang (coronavirus), Lukas Klostermann (arthroscopy in the left knee) and Konrad Laimer (arthroscopy in the right knee) will all be missing.
What the coaches said
"It will be crucial to invest more in the game than Leipzig."
FC Bayern coach Hansi Flick
Hansi Flick: "Leipzig have come on enormously, they were in the semi-finals of the Champions League last season. They play with lots of variation, move forward quickly and put opponents under pressure. It will be crucial to invest more in the game than Leipzig."
Julian Nagelsmann (RB Leipzig coach): "Last year we could have won in Munich. We've also developed a promising idea for this Saturday. With a win we could overtake Bayern and climb to the top of the table."
For all the important info, read our facts and figures about the game:
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