IMAGO / Sven Simon
Oct 16, 2026 6:47 PM
Updated Oct 19, 2026 9:09 PM
Manuel Neuer’s fitness struggle leaves a leadership void for Vincent Kompany, while a defiant David Raum arrives in Munich confident that Leipzig can topple the Bundesliga giants.
Bayern Munich could be without captain Manuel Neuer for Saturday's Bundesliga showdown against RB Leipzig, with the goalkeeper's fitness emerging as a significant concern ahead of the encounter.
According to BILD, Neuer missed Bayern's latest team training session because of foot discomfort, completing only indoor exercises.
The veteran goalkeeper's availability remains uncertain, with a final assessment expected ahead of kick-off.
Meanwhile, Leipzig captain David Raum insists his side is travelling to Munich with confidence, despite acknowledging the gap between the two clubs in recent seasons.
Neuer's Absence Adds To Bayern's Selection Problems
The goalkeeper's experience and leadership could prove particularly important against a Leipzig attack that scored six goals against Eintracht Frankfurt last weekend.
Should Neuer be unavailable, Kompany would be forced to make a change in one of the team's most important positions.
There is more encouraging news for Bayern regarding Michael Olise, however.
The French winger will be available for the clash against Leipzig and will be eager to make his mark, knowing he is certain to miss the upcoming Champions League showdown with Arsenal.
Bayern sporting director Max Eberl addressed the treatment Olise has received from opponents, stressing that the winger must remain focused despite attempts to provoke him.
"He shouldn't let himself be provoked and has to make sure he wins his duel with the opponent. For now, we have him available against Leipzig, and that's the most important thing."
Raum Refuses To Accept Underdog Status
Despite Bayern's recent dominance, Leipzig captain David Raum believes his side have the quality to compete at the Allianz Arena.
The German international offered a realistic assessment of the difference between the teams while rejecting the suggestion that Die Roten Bullen should approach the fixture as overwhelming outsiders.
"We don't see ourselves as complete underdogs,"
The defender acknowledged Bayern's superior results over recent seasons but insisted Leipzig have enough quality to challenge the hosts.
"We have the squad and the quality to cause Bayern problems and certainly come away with something. That's why we're heading there with confidence."
His comments reflect Leipzig's growing belief following consecutive victories over Frankfurt and PSV Eindhoven.
The challenge now is translating that momentum into a major away result.
Leipzig Also Missing Three Players
Martín Demichelis has his own selection concerns ahead of the trip to Munich.
Assan Ouédraogo, Christoph Baumgartner, and Marc Guiu have been ruled out, reducing the RB coach's options for one of the most demanding fixtures of the season.
Baumgartner's absence is particularly frustrating given the attacking midfielder's importance to Leipzig's creative options.
Nevertheless, Demichelis can take encouragement from the performances of Christopher Nkunku, Antonio Nusa and Brajan Gruda, who have all made important contributions in recent matches.
Saturday's contest, which will be refereed by Tobias Stieler, offers Leipzig an opportunity to test their improving form against a Bayern side dealing with several personnel concerns.
For Raum and his teammates, the message is clear: Bayern may be favourites, but the Red Bulls have no intention of travelling to Munich simply to defend.
From here the stage only gets bigger.
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