Confirmed FC Bayern and Borussia Dortmund absentees ahead of Der Klassiker
· Yahoo Sports
Bayern are set to be without four players, including captain Manuel Neuer and attacking midfielder Jamal Musiala, while Borussia Dortmund will also be missing two members of their squad.
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Bayern assistant coach Aaron Danks confirmed Neuer's absence during Friday's press conference, explaining that the 39-year-old is still experiencing discomfort in his foot.
"The game comes a little too early for Manuel Neuer. He still has some pain in his foot," Danks explained.
Jonas Urbig is therefore expected to continue between the posts for Bayern, having deputised for the experienced goalkeeper on several occasions this season.
Musiala's absence continues to be a significant setback for the Bavarians. The Germany international has been sidelined since suffering a muscle injury in his right thigh during the international break in September. Although his recovery is progressing, he has yet to return to full team training.
Luis Díaz and Bara Sapoko Ndiaye complete Bayern's list of four absentees. Díaz's absence is particularly notable given the Colombian's attacking contribution, while Ndiaye is unavailable following an appendicitis-related issue.
For Dortmund, experienced midfielder Emre Can will miss the encounter with a knee injury, while Giannis Konstantelias is also unavailable with a knee problem.
Niko Kovač will consequently have to manage without two members of his squad as Dortmund look to produce a positive result against their biggest domestic rivals.
The stakes are particularly high heading into Saturday's encounter, with both sides level on 17 points after the opening seven Bundesliga matches. Bayern currently occupy top spot on goal difference, meaning Dortmund have an opportunity to move above the defending champions with a victory in Munich.
Despite their injury concerns, Bayern will be confident of extending their advantage at the summit, particularly with Harry Kane leading the attack. However, Dortmund will be determined to upset the hosts and make a statement in the early stages of the title race.
The 141st Der Klassiker takes place at the Allianz Arena on Saturday, with kick-off scheduled for 18:30 CET.