Bayern head to Atlético Madrid with growing injury concerns

Bayern head to Atlético Madrid with an expanding injury list. Ismael Saibari and Serge Gnabry were forced off during the 2-2 draw with Dortmund, while several other first-team players are unavailable or doubtful. Michael Olise also had to leave the match after suffering a knee problem.

Saibari was the most seriously affected. Following a challenge involving Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel, the midfielder tore the syndesmosis ligament in his right ankle. Bayern announced that he had undergone successful surgery. The club also reported a muscle injury to the back of Gnabry’s left thigh. Bayern said both players would be « unavailable for the time being », without giving a precise timeframe. They will miss at least Tuesday’s trip to Madrid.

Saibari could face a lengthy spell out: German media reports suggest he may be sidelined for at least three months. Gnabry has also injured the back of his left thigh, but Bayern have not confirmed a return date. Olise, who left late in the match holding his right knee, has yet to receive a diagnosis from the club, leaving his availability for the Atlético fixture uncertain.

Other cases add to Bayern’s preparations. A minor tear to his left hamstring, sustained about a week and a half ago, will keep Luis Díaz out for Bayern. Jamal Musiala has been out since the end of September with a muscle tear in his right thigh sustained while with the Germany national team. Goalkeeper Jonas Urbig, who collided with Carney Chukwuemeka, is also being assessed for possible concussion symptoms or other complications.

With Tuesday’s Champions League meeting against Atlético approaching, the club must assess the options available. Harry Kane underlined the importance of the game before the flight to Madrid: « It’s an important match for us. We have already drawn twice in the Champions League, and we know how important it could be to finish among the top eight. A difficult away game awaits us, and we will have to give our very best to win. »