FC Bayern starts the new Champions League year against Feyenoord Rotterdam. Reaching the round of 16 directly is still possible for the record champions.
FC Bayern’s goal in the first Champions League game of the new year at Feyenoord Rotterdam is clear: to win and take an important step towards the top eight in the table and a direct place in the round of 16. Coach Vincent Kompany doesn’t waste too much time on the table: “I don’t look at the Champions League table, I just can’t make it. I had a lot of fun in this new format, I have to be honest.” His goal is clear: to win six of the eight games and thus securely qualify. “You can’t say much more,” says Kompany.
Musiala fit for 90 minutes?
Jamal Musiala, who was only substituted on in both games of the new year after an illness, was optimistic that he would get more playing time against Feyenoord: “I feel fresh and have energy. That’s a coaching decision, like many Minutes I get.” Kompany didn’t want to commit to that: “We’ll see about that tomorrow.” For him it is important that Many players are back in training after injuries, such as Josip Stanišić.
Both coaches and players were looking forward to the heated atmosphere in “De Kuip” in Rotterdam: “Each of us is looking forward to it. It makes playing football even more fun,” said Musiala. Kompany also saw no disadvantage in the away game: “In a stadium like this, many players will be extra motivated,” said Kompany.
Musiala: “The talks are going well”
Jamal Musiala was optimistic about the ongoing contract talks: “Everyone who knows me knows how much I value the club and how happy I am here,” said Musiala. “I’m just focusing on football. We’ll see what happens in the next few weeks. The talks are going well.” Musiala’s current contract expires in the summer of 2026, and those responsible at Munich are keen to tie him to the club for the long term.
At the same time, Musiala is also hoping for the contract extensions of other players such as Alphonso Davies and Leroy Sané. “They are two of my closest mates,” said Musiala. “They are great players and very important to our team, both on and off the pitch. We will have to wait and see what happens in the next few weeks, but I would be happy to play with them again next year.”
Praise for Tom Bischof
Tom Bischof was re-signed in the summer. The talent from TSG Hoffenheim comes on a free transfer and has signed until 2029. “Everyone knows Tom Bischof’s strengths,” said Kompany, highlighting Bischof’s passing game and his technical ability. The 19-year-old is “a really big talent.”
Despite the praise, Kompany’s focus quickly returned to the game at hand: “Right now the only priority is the game against Feyenoord.” Bayern have twelve points in their account before the last two preliminary round games in Rotterdam and in a week at home against Slovan Bratislava.
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Source: BR24Sport January 22, 2025 – 9:00 p.m
