4-2-3-1: Bayern Munich vs Union Berlin as Thomas Muller returns to lead the front line

Sadio Mane and Noussair Mazraoui have returned to team training, but it is still too early for them to play. Meanwhile, Dayot Upamecano is suspended following his red card against Gladbach. Choupo-Moting also had a minor neck injury, but he and Kingsley Coman should be available for the game, albeit with reservations.

So, what kind of lineup can we expect? After much criticism this week, Julian Nagelsmann announced that Thomas Muller would undoubtedly start against Union Berlin. We can assume that Muller will play as the striker against Union, with Jamal Musiala supporting him in attacking midfield, based on how the coach operates. The likely winger candidates are Leroy Sane and Serge Gnabry, with Kingsley Coman and Sadio Mane as the first options off the bench.

Based on the personnel available, a double pivot of Leon Goretzka and Joshua Kimmich appears to be the most likely outcome in midfield. Ryan Gravenberch is unlikely to be ready to face Union Berlin this year, and Goretzka and Kimmich have been in good form since the former returned to the lineup against PSG.

The main source of questions is the defense. Given that Union will almost certainly play defensively, Julian Nagelsmann may opt for a more offensive back four with Joao Cancelo and Alphonso Davies as wing-backs. In this scenario, Benjamin Pavard and Matthijs de Ligt could simply play as center-backs, with Yann Sommer in goal.

Of course, that isn’t the only option — it’s just one of the most likely. Here are some possible lineups for Nagelsmann: