Football Germany is looking forward to the top game between league leaders Bayer Leverkusen and pursuers FC Bayern on Saturday evening (6:30 p.m.). Ex-national player Michael Ballack, who played for both clubs during his playing days, expects a different face from the Munich team in particular compared to the last few weeks.
“It’s not Tuchel-Bayern yet, there’s still room for improvement, a lot of potential for improvement. The results are mostly right, the points tally in the league is very good, but in terms of play it’s too poor,” explained the 47-year-old in an interview with the “Sportbuzzer”.
The star ensemble from Säbener Straße is currently two points behind Leverkusen. The Werkself, coached by Xabi Alonso, are still unbeaten after 20 match days.
Ballack emphasized: “We haven’t seen the true Tuchel football yet. He had a hard time getting started in the last third of the season. But one thing is also clear: he needs a title, Dortmund gave Bayern the championship last season. “
The first leg at the Allianz Arena last September remained without a winner, with Leverkusen grabbing a 2-2 draw at the last second. A lot has happened on both sides since then.
Ballack sure: FC Bayern needs “that special appeal”
At FC Bayern there are high hopes of overtaking their direct rivals for the championship with a three-pointer in the top duel.
“They are back in touch, only two points behind. So they have the title in their own hands – even though there is room for improvement,” explained Ballack. The “ultimate test” now awaits Leverkusen.
The former captain of the German national team added: “For me, Bavaria still has the best squad and the best players. But maybe some players need that special appeal after eleven championships in a row.”
This is exactly the case in the clash between first and second place: “On Saturday they want to prove it to everyone – and that’s what makes Bayern so dangerous.”