Daniel Pinder runs the rule on Bayern Munich after their 3-0 win over Anderlecht in the Champions League tonight.
Manuel Neuer: 6
There’s no doubt that Bayern Munich had missed Manuel Neuer at the start of the season but now that the Germany No. 1 has returned from injury, they look more assured defensively. Little to do on the night, Neuer will surely be called upon against the bigger teams.
Joshua Kimmich: 7
A successor to Philipp Lahm, Joshua Kimmich covered ever blade of grass on his side of the pitch, much like his predecessor would have done. Assisted Thiago for his goal, Kimmich’s crossing was on point while his Bayern Munich future looks to be at right-back. Capped off his night with a composed finished past Matz Sels to make it 3-0.
Javi Martinez: 6
In the side to do a job, Javi Martinez did just that. Made one key block in the second-half, the Spaniard didn’t put a foot wrong, while he did nothing spectacular.
Niklas Süle: 7
Having joined Bayern Munich in the summer from TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, Niklas Süle is certainly adapting to life in Bavaria. The 22-year-old came close to scoring his first Champions League goal, only to see it wrong ruled out. Dominant in the air, Süle’s Bayern Munich career has got off to a promising start.
Rafinha: 6
With both David Alaba and Juan Bernat out injured, Carlo Ancelotti has resorted to playing right-back Rafinha on the left. Defensively astute, the Brazilian didn’t venture forward on too many occasions against Anderlecht but did work well in his own third.
Corentin Tolisso: 7
Playing alongside Thiago in a midfield pivot, Corentin Tolisso once again looked promising. His vision found Kimmich free on the right-flank to assist Thiago for Bayern’s second goal, while the Frenchman remained composed on the ball for the full 90 minutes.
Thiago: 8
If Thiago isn’t playing, you can certainly notice. Given the ability to roam, the Spaniard makes space for himself where he’s able to find that killer pass, just like he did on many occasions on the night. Alongside Tolisso, the duo showed an understanding which may make it difficult for Arturo Vidal to find his way back in this team.
Arjen Robben: 7
A joy to watch, Arjen Robben showed his Champions League experience with yet another impressive display. On another night, he could well have scored three but it just wasn’t to be. Causing problems for the Anderlecht defence, the Dutchman will certainly be tough to replace once he retires.
James Rodriguez: 6
Although yet to find his form at Bayern Munich, James Rodriguez is certainly the calibre of player that Ancelotti has been missing. Showing glimpses of promise the Colombian played a few key passes, while he should cut down on the fancy flicks, and focus on the simple things.
Franck Ribery: 8
Alongside Thiago, Franck Ribery was Bayern Munich’s best player. Despite being 34, the Frenchman is still playing like he’s 10 years younger. Most chances created came through Ribery, while his frustration at being substituted shows he still has the passion and fire in him to succeed.
Robert Lewandowski: 7
Although he scored on the night and created several chances on the night, Robert Lewandowski will be disappointed in himself. A frustrated figure against Anderlecht, the Poland international looked to have played for himself rather than the team – while his body language looked negative. An improvement is certainly needed in his next game.
Substitutions
Jerome Boateng: N/A
Came on late into the second-half to make his first appearance in four months.
Thomas Müller: N/A
Almost scored with his first touch. Itching for a run in the first-team.
Kinglsey Coman: N/A
Brought on two minutes from time, not on long enough to create an impact.
