BERLIN:
Bayern Munich travel to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League last 16 on Tuesday knowing that losing the tie would represent a failed season regardless of domestic victory.
After defeating Bochum on Saturday, Bayern manager Julian Nagelsmann cut a frustrated face and looked anything but a coach who was just thinking about another week on the Bundesliga table and a 3-0 home win.
“There’s very little action,” said the 35-year-old, promising “if we play like that on Tuesday, we won’t advance (to the Champions League).”
Nagelsmann also issued a small warning to his starting XI on Saturday, saying his team “only got better after 60 minutes (when) the substitutes had new energy.”
“That’s when we got the result, not the first time. We have to improve before Tuesday.”
The fact that the best-club season of success in the country will not be so important for Nagelsmann – just like his partner PSG Christophe Galtier.
Other managers have shown the door to Bayern for less.
Niko Kovac was fired a year after winning the league-cup twice with the side still in Champions League contention – Bayern eventually lifted the trophy later that season under Hansi Flick.
Even the big name of the expert in Europe Carlo Ancelotti they were dismissed by Bayern after the club finished 3-0 to PSG in 2017 – and were in the group stages.
Despite winning their 10th title in 2021-22, Bayern’s season ended in defeat due to a shock Champions League quarter-final loss at the hands of Villarreal.
Nagelsmann, in his first season at Bayern, may have escaped many accusations, but the situation will be different if the side is eliminated in the round of 16 this time, regardless of the a case of resistance.
Bayern have struggled since the resumption of the league after the winter break as three 1-1 draws allowed surprise challengers Union Berlin to cut their lead at the top of the league table at one side.
However, Nagelsmann remains focused on their French rivals.
When PSG announced Kylian Mbappe could miss the first leg after the star striker went down with an injury, Nagelsmann accused the French champions of not being used to mental games.
“What it says on the (PSG) website is not clear. If it is not a fundamental injury, I can’t imagine him missing the game. I am preparing for the game like he’s going to play,” he said.
Nagelsmann’s players spoke in another game ahead of the big battle by showing their enthusiasm for the tie and doubling Bayern’s European record.
Midfielder Leon Goretzka said he was glad the wait to face PSG was over.
“We have been buzzing since the release of the film … all of Europe is hot for this game (and) now is the time.”
Thomas Mueller backed the two-time Champions League winner “to show up, to be there”.
“When tension arises, that’s when it matters.”
Former Man City player Leroy Sane said his team will not be intimidated by “big names in their position”, saying “we know what to do”.
“I always believe. Bayern will always deliver in this competition.
“We know our strengths and we have to call on them. Our team consists of great players. We are secure and in front we have one thing – attack.”
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