ARJEN ROBBEN

Bayern Munich forward Arjen Robben was pictured training on Saturday morning as he continues his intensive session with the hope he would be able to return early to the team.

The Dutch international has been working hard at his comeback as he is expected in say another three weeks. However, it wouldn’t be out of place if the German outfit opt to hold off his resumption till after the international break. Another option is to get late substitution offers until he regains full match fitness.

The former Chelsea and Real Madrid player picked up the groin back injury when Bayern played a friendly against Lippstadt. The injury was non-contact, yet a devastating one for the injury-laden player when his career is winding down, and when a host of changes are being made to the team. Robben and Douglas Costa are out of the game against Dortmund in the German Supercup. Franck Ribbery has not attained full match fitness, so he is in doubt. This leaves the option of Thomas Muller and Kingsley Coman to finish the job.

Coman would have a big chance to prove to the new coach Carlos Ancelotti that he is capable of converting first team chances. The young Frenchman would have to step up and control the pace of the game, use it to secure his position in the squad, else when any of the established players return, he would give up the spot.

Thomas Muller had a bad time at the Euro 2016 for Germany, but would have to resume his regular old form to convince Ancelotti who is under pressure to perform in Europe after back to back Bundesliga title victories. Former coach Pep Guardiola took them to the semi finals multiple times but couldn’t breakthrough, the Bayern management would be hoping Ancelotti makes a difference.