Bayern seek to re-establish Bundesliga lead against newcomers Union Berlin

After two months without football in Germany’s top-flight, the resumption of the Bundesliga commenced without issue on Saturday.

Six games played in empty stadiums provided fans all over the globe with entertainment whilst fans and coaches observed social distancing measures, even in celebration.

With Borussia Dortmund’s convincing victory in the Revierderby, Hans-Dieter Flick’s men will understand the importance of three points against Union Berlin.

Lucien Favre’s men ran out 4-0 winners over Schalke and reduced the gap to Bayern at the top to just a single point.

Hansi Flick’s men face a Union side who have made a real impression on the Bundesliga in their first season, conquering Bayern’s title challengers Dortmund and Gladbach in the campaign so far.

It remains to be seen whether form continues after such a length break but Bayern, who were unbeaten in 15 competitive matches before the break, will certainly hope so. As ever, Robert Lewandowski remains their key man, the Polish striker netting a league-high 25 goals this season.

Serge Gnabry, who starred in victories over Chelsea and Tottenham in the Champions League this season, also seven goals and four assists in his last ten Bundesliga matches and is another danger to Urs Fischer’s side.

Union pose their own threats in Sebastian Andersson and captain Christopher Trimmel, the pair leading the team in goals and assists so far this campaign. Their efforts as well as the solid defensive work of players such as former BVB defender Neven Subotic has propelled Union to 11th place so far, a position their leaves them closer to the European places to facing the drop. 

Team news

Sheraldo Becker (thigh) and Marvin Friedrich (suspended) are the main concerns for Union ahead of the fixture at Stadion An der Alten Försterei.

Bayern have selection issues with Philippe Coutinho (ankle) and Corentin Tolisso (ankle) definitely out of Sunday’s fixture, Niklas Sule also unlikely to feature for the visitors.