„Typical Italian team“: Pavlovic warns Bayern against Atalanta | OneFootball

FC Bayern enter the decisive phase of the Champions League with Atalanta Bergamo awaiting them in the round of 16. Midfielder Aleksandar Pavlovic looks ahead to the clash with the Italian club with great respect and explains what will be important for the record champions

First of all, coach Vincent Kompany’s team must win the first leg away at the Gewiss Stadium, before the second leg at the Allianz Arena a few days later

Pavlovic is expecting a very disciplined team from Serie A. The 21-year-old sees the Italians‘ defensive stability in particular as a major strength. „Atalanta defend very well, like a typical Italian team, and they try to counter-attack,“ explained the Bayern professional with a view to their upcoming opponents

It is therefore particularly important for Munich to remain alert defensively: „We have to be vigilant in our defensive positioning and play our game.“

Clear objective in the premier class

photo: IMAGO

Despite their respect for Atalanta, the German record champions‘ objectives are clear: „If you want to win the Champions League, you have to beat everyone,“ Pavlovic emphasized

At the same time, the midfielder was relieved that it was not a German duel: „I’m glad we’re not playing another German team.“

Respect for the opponents is also clearly noticeable within the Bayern attack. Winger Luis Díaz expects a difficult round of 16. „It will be more difficult now than in the league phase because the best teams are now left. Every team in the round of 16 deserves to be here,“ explained the Colombian

Díaz also praised the quality of the opposition: „Atalanta are a great club – it will be a tough task for us.“

Second leg in Munich as an advantage

Michael Olise is also bracing himself for an intense encounter. The French attacking player believes Bayern have a duty to play at their best. „When they’re at this point in the competition, they’re a good team. We just have to be at our best level and then win,“ explained the 24-year-old

At the same time, the fixture list could play into Munich’s hands, with the second leg taking place at the Allianz Arena. „If you’re behind, you have the support at home to keep pushing. You can feel the fans behind you, which is extra motivation,“ Olise emphasized

One thing is clear: FC Bayern will go into the round of 16 clash against Atalanta Bergamo with respect, but also with a lot of confidence.