Bayern Munich’s coach Vincent Kompany has made significant changes ahead of the final match in the Champions League group stage, naming Jamal Musiala to the starting lineup for the first time since last summer. The 22-year-old is set to play in the crucial encounter against Dutch champions PSV Eindhoven at 21:00 (DAZN). Kompany has made a total of five alterations following the team’s 2-1 defeat in the Bundesliga to FC Augsburg.
Musiala, who suffered a fibula fracture and a sprained ankle during the Club World Cup in the USA, will be joined in the attack by Nicolas Jackson. Star striker Harry Kane is being rested for this match. Additionally, Joshua Kimmich returns to the starting eleven, taking the place of Leon Goretzka alongside Aleksandar Pavlovic.
The defensive line sees two changes as well. Dayot Upamecano, who recently recovered from illness, replaces the suspended Min-Jae Kim in central defense alongside Jonathan Tah. Tom Bischof is preferred over Alphonso Davies for the left-back position.
In an unexpected twist, there will be no changes in goal; Jonas Urbig, despite his previous error against FCA, retains his spot, while captain Manuel Neuer will start on the bench.
On the opposing side, PSV Eindhoven features two players with past connections to Bayern Munich: Paul Wanner in central midfield and Ivan Perisic, who continues to lead the attack down the left flank.
A draw for FC Bayern would secure them second place in the group stage, allowing them the advantage of playing at home in a potential semifinal and avoiding the tournament favorites, FC Arsenal. Fourth place, guaranteeing home advantage into the quarterfinals, is already secured for the German record champions.
This strategic lineup change shows Kompany’s confidence in his squad depth and his intent to balance both domestic and European commitments while providing a hopeful outlook as Bayern seeks to build momentum heading into the knockout stages of the prestigious tournament.