FC Bayern Munich won their home game against Hertha BSC 2-0 (0-0) and thus regained the lead in the table from Borussia Dortmund. The boss set the decisive impulses in midfield – but several players could not provide any arguments for a place in the starting XI. The winners and losers of the game as well as the grades and individual reviews of the FCB pros.
Winner: Joshua Kimmich (Bayern Munich)
His chip on Gnabry to make it 1-0 was of course wonderful, his deep pass to Coman and 2-0 was no less worth seeing. But Bayern’s central midfielder had already tried to at least boost Bayern’s lame offensive game. Gave by far the most shots to goal, and as always with an almost flawless pass rate. If anyone from Munich really wants to be champions again, it’s him.
Loser: Jonjoe Kenny (Hertha BSC)
With the exception of keeper Oliver Christensen, no one among the guests covered themselves in glory, that much can be said. But where the central defense was secure for a long time, the right-back at the back was still the weakest link in the chain. It was most often from his side that it became dangerous, plus 15 turnovers and nothing in the game forward.
Yan Summers: The first shot on his goal was blocked – the second ended up in his arms in the 84th minute. Accordingly, had little to do, especially since Hertha’s counterplay did not exist. A quiet working day for a change. Grade: 3.5.
FC Bayern Munich: Defense
Noussair Mazraoui: Publicly demanded more playing time, made the starting XI for the first time this season. But did not provide any arguments for a regular place. Standing high when in possession of the ball, but could not provide any impetus in the offensive game. grade: 5
Benjamin Pavard: Was allowed to play as a central defender after Upamecano’s failure, there was little to do there. Radiated goal danger again on the offensive, a header and a long-range shot each went just over it. Note 3.
Matthijs de Ligt: In the early stages, Niederlechner let himself be duped on his own baseline, but then straddled in time. A few small wobbles against physical opponents. With standards, as usual, way ahead, headed over it several times (49th, 56th). grade: 4
João Cancelo: Very engaged from the start, the first finish after just 50 seconds. Happy to play on the left, agile and with good crosses. But he also gave a possible counterattack. A little less noticeable in the second half. Note 3.
FC Bayern Munich: Midfield
Joshua Kimmich: In contrast to many other teams, Hertha refrained from pressing against him, but he was initially unable to exploit that. Improved as the game progressed as ball distributors and set pieces. Brilliant crosses on Gnabry at 1:0 and Coman at 2:0. Grade: 2.
Leon Goretzka: Collected more turnovers (seven) than tackles (four, of which only two won) until he was substituted during the break, never managed to structure the game as a liaison player. He also seems to have lost his dynamism, otherwise his trademark. Stayed in the dressing room for Leroy Sané at the break. grade: 5
Serge Gnabry: Practically invisible for long stretches in offensive play, until he went through once on the left and crossed well to Coman. Forced Christensen to make his best save (40th). Then finally with the compelling finish that Bayern are looking for: a perfect diving header to make it 1-0. Note 3.
Jamal Musiala: Always wanted to take on several opponents as soon as he got the ball. Sometimes that worked, but often it didn’t. He is currently lacking in clear actions, and the goal threat from the first half of the season has also vanished into thin air. grade: 4
Kingsley Coman: Started on the left, but then increasingly dodged to the right. His speed was a weapon, getting through to the baseline multiple times. However, the flanks did not find their way to the teammate. Stumbled on Gnabry’s good pass in front of Christensen – and when he crossed perfectly, Mané couldn’t push the ball (45th). Tested Christensen from the turn (78th), and a little later refined Kimmich’s cross. Grade: 2.
Bayern Munich: Attack
Sadio Mane: Offered as a classic nine, but this time completely without fortune. Didn’t get any spaces, faulty in the combination game, a few centimeters were missing on the flanks. When he was completely free, the timing of the header was lacking. grade: 5
FC Bayern Munich: Substitute
Leroy Sane: Came in for Goretzka at the break to ensure even more attacking play. It wasn’t his game, barely visible on the left wing. Almost made it 3-0. grade: 4
Thomas Müller: Came in for Mané for the last half hour but didn’t provide any arguments for a place in the starting XI against Werder either. grade: 4
Ryan Gravenberch: Replaced Musiala after 60 minutes and stabilized the midfield. Hinted at its potential a couple of times. Note 3.
Josip Stanisic: Was allowed to defend for Mazraoui in the final quarter of an hour, Hertha came through his side a couple of times. No rating.
Mathy’s phone: Played ten minutes because Coman was allowed to get his applause. But didn’t post a goal scene anymore. No rating.
