Bayern Munich will face Flamengo today aiming to clinch a spot in the quarterfinals of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025. However, they will not have an easy task as the Brazilian team arrives as one of the top contenders for the title, consolidated among the best teams of the tournament. Moreover, their starting eleven shows a number of high-profile absentees such as Jamal Musiala, Thomas Muller and Leroy Sane.
Despite the absences in Bayern, coach Vincent Kompany has players capable of making a difference such as Michael Olise and Harry Kane, who make up the starting eleven. In addition, they keep their starting defensive line formed by newcomers Jonathan Tah and Dayot Upamecano, who have been differential throughout the tournament.
Although Harry Kane does not arrive in his best goal-scoring form, as he has only scored one goal in the competition, his talent and goal-scoring ability can be totally differential against Flamengo, which represents one of the biggest challenges of the tournament. In addition, he would arrive with the hunger to silence the criticism he has received due to his low scoring level.
Why are Musiala, Muller, and Sane substitutes in the Round of 16 of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025?
Injury concerns continue to impact Bayern Munich’s campaign, with Jamal Musiala among the notable setbacks. The young star was subbed off during the match against Boca Juniors and played only briefly against Benfica. While not excluded in the official squad list this time, the club is managing his minutes carefully to avoid aggravating his condition.
Sacha Boey #23 of FC Bayern Munchen celebrates with Kingsley Coman #11 after scoring his team’s second goal during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group C match between FC Bayern München and Auckland City FC
The situation is slightly different for Thomas Muller, who was left out of the starting lineup due to tactical decisions made by head coach Vincent Kompany. Leroy Sane’s case stands apart, he has already reached an agreement to join Galatasaray and is being kept on the bench to avoid any injury that could jeopardize the move. With him no longer in Bayern’s long-term plans, the club has turned its attention to players committed to staying beyond the tournament.
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Where to watch Flamengo vs Bayern live in the USA: FIFA Club World Cup 2025
Despite these absences, Bayern still start as the favorite team against Flamengo, as they have a squad full of young stars and veterans who are among the best players in the world. However, the Brazilian team cannot be discounted, as they also have world-class players and can surprise the German team.
