📣 Nagelsmann on return of the King 👑; Plzeň expectations; Gnabry freedom | OneFootball

Julian Nagelsmann has been speaking to the media ahead of Bayern Munich’s home Champions League clash against Viktoria Plzeň on Tuesday.

Here’s what he had to say.

On Viktoria Plzeň clash

“We need and want to get three points tomorrow. It’s extremely important to win the game against Plzeň and also to keep the rhythm up.

“I expect a top performance.

“I expect Plzeň to defend deep. Up front they have two target men. It’s a similar idea to Augsburg.

“We’re trying to achieve our best possible performances not only in the Champions League, but of course also for the upcoming Bundesliga games.”

On possible rotation

“We have to rotate a bit, but we won’t make seven changes.

“There are several ways to rotate, with early substitutions or changes to the lineup. You’ll see tomorrow what I decide.”

On Serge Gnabry’s place in the XI

“Serge is definitely a candidate to start, I haven’t decided 100% who will play yet.

“I rate Serge very highly and expect him not to think too much, I want him to play freely. I put a lot of trust in him, so he can play freely.”

On Kingsley Coman fitness

“King is doing well. He’s trained today with a full workload, but is not an option for tomorrow.

“He will train again in the next few days and I’m optimistic he will be an option for Dortmund, but not from the start – an option for the squad.”

On ideal position for Leon Goretska

“He’s doing well after his injury & Covid infection.

“We have to think about what position he’s playing. I’m currently leaning more towards a number eight rather than a number six because I see him as more valuable there. He should play like he did when he was subbed on versus Leverkusen.”

On Covid recoveries

“They [Thomas Müller and Joshua Kimmich] have no symptoms. They feel good and they both would have liked to be training.

“If they test negative on Friday, they will be an option for Dortmund. Whether they can start on Saturday depends on their condition. I’m confident.”

On whether Alphonso Davies is rested

“Phonzy is still young and can play a lot. It always depends on how the game is going.

“Josip Stanišić often played in the position. He’s doing well too and would be an option to start for Phonzy. But I haven’t decided yet.”