As Bayern Munich prepare for their midweek showdown against Club Brugge, there’s a growing sense of urgency around the squad’s fitness situation. With key fixtures piling up, fans are wondering: will Josip Stanisic and Serge Gnabry be fit in time for the Champions League battle?
Let’s break it down.
Stanisic: Fighting to Return
Josip Stanisic has been dealing with a minor muscular issue that kept him sidelined in recent training sessions. Though not considered a long-term setback, his absence has raised questions about Bayern’s defensive depth heading into this crucial fixture. The Croatian full-back has been a reliable rotational option, especially in games requiring defensive stability and tactical flexibility.
The good news? Reports from Säbener Straße suggest Stanisic has returned to light individual training. However, a full comeback before the Brugge clash remains uncertain. Bayern’s medical team won’t rush him—especially with the Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal still demanding top performances in the weeks ahead.
⚡ Gnabry: Race Against Time
Meanwhile, Serge Gnabry’s situation is a bit more concerning. The winger, who suffered a muscle strain earlier this month, has been training separately as he works on regaining match fitness. His explosive pace and goal threat have been sorely missed on the flanks, especially in tight games where Bayern need that extra spark in attack.
Thomas Tuchel, ever the pragmatist, hinted during the pre-match press conference that Gnabry “is close, but not yet at 100%.” Translation: it’s a race against time. Bayern may choose to rest him for one more match to avoid aggravating the injury—a sensible move, even if it leaves the squad thinner than ideal.
Tactical Implications
Without both players, Tuchel may be forced to shuffle his starting eleven again. Expect Noussair Mazraoui or Konrad Laimer to fill in defensively, while Leroy Sané and Kingsley Coman shoulder the creative load up front.
Bayern’s strength has always been its squad depth, but this mini injury crisis will test that reputation. Brugge, no pushovers on home soil, will sense an opportunity to exploit any vulnerability.
Still, if there’s one thing Bayern have proven time and again—it’s that adversity brings out their best. Fans will be hoping that come matchday, both Stanisic and Gnabry are back, ready to fire the Rekordmeister toward another European victory.
