Ryan Gravenberch set for rare start as Bayern face injury woes

This article was last updated on May 5, 2023

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Ryan Gravenberch may feature from start against Werder Bremen as Bayern Munich deals with injuries and suspensions.

Bundesliga title holders Bayern Munich might have to go without a number of regular starters in their away game against Werder Bremen on Saturday evening, owing to injuries and suspensions. However, for Ryan Gravenberch, the depleted squad might be what he needs to make a rare start this season.

One-man’s downfall is another man’s opportunity

The 18-year-old Dutchman could enter the starting midfield team again for the second time when they take on Werder Bremen. Gravenberch stands to benefit from Leon Goretzka’s suspension, who picked up his fifth yellow card of the season.

Borussia Dortmund’s loss of points put Bayern Munich back at the top last week. With just one point separating the title holders and Dortmund, every game and lineup choice could potentially make or break the championship aspirations of both sides.

“For some players, this title fight is something of an attraction,” said Bayern Munich’s coach Thomas Tuchel. “Others mainly feel that they can lose something because they are used to becoming champions with a big lead.”

Gravenberch’s breakthrough season

Gravenberch has played 20 league matches this year. However, this is only his second start as he made his debut in February against Borussia Mönchengladbach in a 3-2 loss. He has also started two Champions League matches and one cup match for the German giants.

The highly-rated youngster made his name in the Dutch Eredivisie while playing for Ajax Amsterdam. He caught the attention of Bayern Munich by showcasing his skills, which has earned him a more active role in the team.

“I think Ryan will get a place in midfield,” Tuchel shared at his press conference this week. “I thought he came in well against Hertha BSC last week. He deserved this.”

Injury crisis adds to Bayern Munich’s woes

Injuries have plagued Bayern Munich this season. Dayot Upamecano, Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, and Alphonso Davies are out of the squad due to their injuries. Josip Stanisic joined the stable of injured players this week. Bayern Munich is striving to perform optimally in upcoming games, therefore, the injuries come as a big blow.

The game against Werder Bremen is a must-win for the title-holders. Dortmund’s game against VfL Wolfsburg is also critical for Die Borussen, as the race for the title enters crunch time. Four rounds are left in the Bundesliga program. For Bayern Munich, every match and every lineup decision counts in their pursuit to win the German title again.

Final thoughts

Ryan Gravenberch’s performance in the match against Werder Bremen could have a significant impact on Bayern Munich’s chances of the title. While the Dutchman continues to make strides in his first season in Germany, injuries and suspensions present a new set of challenges that could define whether Bayern Munich retaining their title or if Dortmund can regain it.