Bayern Munich head coach, Thomas Tuchel, has described Galatasaray as a “strong and intense team”.
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| Bayern Munich manager, Thomas Tuchel, at a press conference ahead of the Uefa Champions League 2023/24 match between Bayern Munich and Galatasaray on Wednesday 8 November, 2023. Photo: @FCBayernEN |
The German manager made the statement at a press conference ahead of the Uefa Champions League 2023/24 match between Bayern Munich and Galatasaray.
German side, Bayern Munich will lock horns with Turkish side, Galatasaray in the UCL 2023/24 match on Wednesday 8 November, 2023 at Allianz Arena at 21:00.
The former Chelsea head coach also talked about his new addition, Harry kane, describing the Englishman as “a fantastic and I credible athlete”, as well as the possibility of clinching a spot in the UCL 2023/24 round of 16.
On the opponent, Tuchel said: “We were able to learn from the problems we had in the last game against them, when Galatasaray were very strong. They play with a lot of intensity and courage. I’m expecting to come up against a very strong, intense team. We need to be precise, move the ball well when in possession and keep our shape.”
On the squad, Tuchel said: “I hope that Dayot Upamecano and @leongoretzka_ will again be options for the starting XI. The two have come out of the last game feeling good.
We have been sticking to the plan in place for both of them. Barring any issues in our final training session, I expect that both will be able to play.
“It’s still too early for Rapha Guerreiro to return to the squad – we’re planning on him being back in time for the Heidenheim game. @mdeligt_04 is the only other player that will also miss out.”
On Kimmich, Tuchel said: “Jo is a regular starter and a key figure within our team. I am planning on him playing tomorrow. Obviously, we have to consider how to compensate for his absence again next Saturday. Jo will be able to showcase his qualities and, barring any issues, will play tomorrow.”
On Manuel Neuer, Tuchel said: “The way he plays cannot be underestimated. He always looks at ease, which is a compliment. If he keeps this up, then he will definitely get back to his best. He lends us stability at the back and takes charge of those around him, The fact that he’s able to do so that quickly at this level, speaks to his quality.”
On Harry Kane, Tuchel said: “It’s his first time at a new club. He’s a family man, so it’s not just been a change of club for him, it’s been a major life change as well.
I never had any doubts about what he was capable of. It was obvious that he’d be able to showcase his talents no matter where he went. It’s fantastic. He’s a great person and an incredible athlete.”
On the possibility of clinching a spot in the round of 16, Tuchel said: “Of course it’s what we’re hoping for. The group stage is always tough, so it would give us a lot of confidence. Tomorrow won’t be easy. We need to push ourselves to the limit again and perform like we have in the league recently.”
