Clash of Titans in Dortmund: Bayern Munich Without Manuel Neuer Against Borussia

The German Bundesliga is preparing for one of the season's most important events – the clash between Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich. This year's Klassiker is taking place under specific circumstances, as both teams are struggling with significant squad shortages. The most important pre-match news is the absence of Manuel Neuer, who did not travel to Signal Iduna Park due to injury. This is a major blow for Munich's defense, especially since Japanese defender Hiroki Ito has suffered another injury. Experts point out that the lack of a leader in goal could be an opportunity for Borussia, which, despite its own problems and eight identified weak points, is counting on the home advantage. The table situation makes this a match for the Dortmund team to keep realistic hopes alive for fighting for the highest goals. Some media suggest that a potential Bayern victory could almost definitively decide the title race, which would be a scenario comparable to sensational triumphs of the past. Meanwhile, Borussia, under its current coaching staff, is looking for a way to neutralize the Bavarians' „killer instinct”. In the background of the sporting rivalry, personal threads emerge, such as the declaration by Thomas Müller about a future return to Germany after a potential adventure abroad, adding a sentimental tone to pre-match analyses. The rivalry between Dortmund and Munich, referred to as the Klassiker, has shaped the modern Bundesliga over the last decade, being a clash between the two richest and most decorated clubs in the country.In addition to the main course of the matchday, German pitches are alive with the relegation battle. VfB Stuttgart hosts Wolfsburg, which must cope without captain Maximilian Arnold. The match in Bremen also looks interesting, where Werder will face Heidenheim. Werder's coach, despite a difficult table position, is tempering expectations, claiming it is not yet a do-or-die match. Meanwhile, in Mainz, the local Mainz 05 is hoping for a surprise that would allow them to bounce back from the lower regions of the standings. The weekend's struggles are complemented by news of the Swiss basketball team's defeat in the World Cup qualifiers, casting a shadow on the condition of team sports there. „Es ist immer ein besonderes Spiel, egal wer auf dem Platz steht oder wer auf der Tribüne sitzt.” (It's always a special game, no matter who is on the pitch or who is in the stands.) — Thomas Müller