Matthäus warns Bayern ahead of the classic: „Mustn’t play with fire“ | OneFootball

Ahead of the Bundesliga clash between Borussia Dortmund and FC Bayern, Lothar Matthäus has his say. In his Sky column, the record-breaking international analyzes Munich’s recent performances – and is not sparing with his criticism. Despite all the warnings, however, he is certain that these Bavarians will not let the championship be taken away from them

„We are spoiled by FC Bayern’s performances,“ writes Matthäus. But even the record champions have phases in which the excitement wanes. Against Frankfurt, previously in several Bundesliga games and also in the DFB Cup in Wiesbaden, they actually had games under control, but then „shifted down a gear or two“

For Matthäus, that’s human – but dangerous. „It happens. But it shouldn’t happen when it counts.“ Especially in crucial games such as in the cup in Leverkusen or in the last 16 of the Champions League, Munich should not allow themselves such carelessness. It went well against Frankfurt or in Wiesbaden, „but you shouldn’t challenge something like that too often“

Matthäus backs Musiala

photo: IMAGO

It is particularly noteworthy that Matthäus is more on the side of Jamal Musiala than coach Vincent Kompany in terms of internal tone. While the coach defends his team externally, Musiala shares the clear expectations. „We can’t have moments like this for our goals. We always have to keep our energy, our focus at one hundred percent,“ the DFB international emphasized on Sky after the narrow 3:2 win against Frankfurt

Matthäus agrees: „Of course the win is important in the end, and of course Vincent Kompany as coach puts himself in front of his team. I absolutely understand him, but I’m more on Jamal Musiala’s side.“ His clear message: „Bayern must not play with fire.“

No doubt about the championship

Despite all the criticism, Matthäus believes the record champions are clearly ahead in the title race. He does concede that Borussia Dortmund could be dangerous – especially if BVB perform like they did in the strong second half of the first leg in Munich. With a win, the Black & Yellows could close the gap to five points with nine matchdays remaining

But in the end, Matthäus does not believe in a turnaround. „This Bayern team with these personalities, with this atmosphere in the team, with this compactness and with this joy of playing will not let the championship out of their hands,“ he writes. And he adds tellingly: „I believe that Dortmund know that too.“

The classic match will be emotional, intense and possibly trend-setting, but for Matthäus one thing is certain: Bayern have been warned – and are still on course for the championship.