Bayern Munich coach Hansi Flick says the treble-chasing Germans need to tighten their defence against Paris Saint-Germain in Sunday's Champions League final after some nervous early moments in their 3-0 semi-final win over Lyon.

Flick's side made a shaky start on Wednesday in Lisbon as Lyon captain Memphis Depay fired wide, then Karl Ekambi hit the post before man-of-the-match Serge Gnabry settled Bayern's nerves with two first-half goals.

Robert Lewandowski headed home his 15th Champions League goal of the season two minutes from the final whistle as Bayern claimed a record-equalling 10th straight win in Europe.

"Lyon fought hard and made things hard for us, we know PSG have quick players and we will have to organise our defence differently," said Flick, whose side scored 42 goals in 10 Champions League games to reach the final.

"Paris are a great team, they fought their way into the semi-final and then reached the final.

"We know they have quick players, but we know our biggest strength is putting our opponents under pressure."

Having already lifted the Bundesliga shield and German Cup this season, Bayern captain Manuel Neuer is relishing the chance of also lifting the Champions League trophy.

Victory over PSG would seal only the second treble in Bayern's history after their 2013 triple success.

Neuer expects a busy night against a star-studded PSG attack boasting Neymar, Kylian Mbappe and Angel di Maria.

"Paris has an attack with big names. There are always a lot of goals with Bayern and PSG," said Germany goalkeeper Neuer.

"Two great teams in this final, it will be a good game for the fans to watch.

"We are very happy to be in the final.

He added: "The difference compared to 2013 team is that the squad is larger.

"We won in 2013 with fewer players, now we have a fantastic group with a good atmosphere in the squad. There are also no killjoys."

For Canadian teenager Alphonso Davies, reaching the Champions League final at the age of 19 is a "dream come true."

Having already helped inflict misery on his hero Lionel Messi in the 8-2 quarter-final drubbing of Barcelona, Davies is delighted to now face Neymar and PSG.

"It's everything you can ask for," said Davies.

"It feels good, everyone's happy and playing well."

Davies says his Bayern team-mates "have basically won everything, but they're still excited. They're still hungry to win this one."

The teenager expects the goals to fly come Sunday.

"Paris are a good team and it's going to be a good game, there's going to be goals in it," he said.

"This is what you dream of as a footballer – playing against the best in Europe. I'm excited."

Bayern Munich coach Hansi Flick says the treble-chasing Germans need to tighten their defence against Paris Saint-Germain in Sunday's Champions League final after some nervous early moments in their 3-0 semi-final win over Lyon.

Bayern Munich coach Hansi Flick says the treble-chasing Germans need to tighten their defence against Paris Saint-Germain in Sunday's Champions League final after some nervous early moments in their 3-0 semi-final win over Lyon. Flick's side made a shaky start on Wednesday in Lisbon as Lyon captain Memphis Depay fired wide, then Karl Ekambi hit the post before man-of-the-match Serge Gnabry settled Bayern's nerves with two first-half goals. Robert Lewandowski headed home his 15th Champions League goal of the season two minutes from the final whistle as Bayern claimed a record-equalling 10th straight win in Europe. "Lyon fought hard and made things hard for us, we know PSG have quick players and we will have to organise our defence differently," said Flick, whose side scored 42 goals in 10 Champions League games to reach the final. "Paris are a great team, they fought their way into the semi-final and then reached the final. "We know they have quick players, but we know our biggest strength is putting our opponents under pressure." Having already lifted the Bundesliga shield and German Cup this season, Bayern captain Manuel Neuer is relishing the chance of also lifting the Champions League trophy. Victory over PSG would seal only the second treble in Bayern's history after their 2013 triple success. Neuer expects a busy night against a star-studded PSG attack boasting Neymar, Kylian Mbappe and Angel di Maria. "Paris has an attack with big names. There are always a lot of goals with Bayern and PSG," said Germany goalkeeper Neuer. "Two great teams in this final, it will be a good game for the fans to watch. "We are very happy to be in the final. He added: "The difference compared to 2013 team is that the squad is larger. "We won in 2013 with fewer players, now we have a fantastic group with a good atmosphere in the squad. There are also no killjoys." For Canadian teenager Alphonso Davies, reaching the Champions League final at the age of 19 is a "dream come true." Having already helped inflict misery on his hero Lionel Messi in the 8-2 quarter-final drubbing of Barcelona, Davies is delighted to now face Neymar and PSG. "It's everything you can ask for," said Davies. "It feels good, everyone's happy and playing well." Davies says his Bayern team-mates "have basically won everything, but they're still excited. They're still hungry to win this one." The teenager expects the goals to fly come Sunday. "Paris are a good team and it's going to be a good game, there's going to be goals in it," he said. "This is what you dream of as a footballer – playing against the best in Europe. I'm excited."

Bayern must tighten defence against PSG in Champions League final, warns Flick

Serge Gnabry struck a first-half brace and Robert Lewandowski also scored as a ruthless Bayern Munich taught Lyon a harsh lesson in their Champions League semi-final in Lisbon on Wednesday, winning 3-0 to set up a tantalising final against Paris Saint-Germain.

Lyon squandered two golden opportunities to go ahead early on at the Estadio Jose Alvalade, through Memphis Depay and Karl Toko-Ekambi.

Within seconds of the latter miss, Gnabry had blasted Bayern into an 18th-minute lead in stunning style, and the Germany winger scored again just after the half-hour mark.

Gnabry, who scored four times in Bayern's 7-2 annihilation of Tottenham Hotspur in the group stage, has now scored nine in nine appearances in this season's competition.

Lewandowski's inevitable goal, his 55th of the season, came two minutes from time.

Bayern as a team have 42 goals in 10 Champions League outings, with this more modest victory following their 8-2 trouncing of Barcelona in the quarter-finals.

"We knew this would be a hard game," insisted coach Hansi Flick. "We needed a bit of luck to get through the opening stages before Serge made the difference."

They have won all their European matches this season but the biggest test awaits, against a PSG side who will be a step up from what they faced here.

Lyon came seventh in the last French season, which was shortened because of the coronavirus pandemic. PSG won Ligue 1 and crushed RB Leipzig 3-0 in their semi-final.

It promises to be an enthralling final, even in the bizarre atmosphere behind closed doors in Portugal's capital.

"For me, it's a dream come true. Playing in the UEFA Champions League and making it to the final. It's everything you can ask for," Bayern's Alphonso Davies told BT Sport.&nbsp;

The German champions will be looking to win their sixth European Cup, seven years on from their last Champions League triumph. It will be their 11th final altogether, against a club appearing in their first ever final.

For Lyon there will be disappointment as their second semi-final appearance ends the same way as their first, a defeat by Bayern in 2010.

<h2>- Step too far -</h2>

This was a step too far for Rudi Garcia's side following their shock successes against Juventus and Manchester City.

Now they must rouse themselves for a new Ligue 1 season which is just about to start, but there will be no European football at all for Lyon in 2020/21, for the first time in 24 years.

They would have had to win this Champions League just to qualify again, and to be fair they will wonder what might have been in this semi-final had they taken at least one of those early chances.

"Congratulations to Bayern. I don't think they were unbeatable," said Toko-Ekambi. "We had chances to score and we played well."

Bayern certainly take risks with their incredibly high line, inviting opponents to try to get in behind them.

Lyon's chance arrived inside the fourth minute. Maxence Caqueret intercepted a Thiago Alcantara pass, looked up and released Depay. The Dutchman went round Manuel Neuer but, with the angle tightening, he could only find the side-netting with his shot.

<h2>- Astonishing transformation -</h2>

The next big let-off for the Bavarians came when Leo Dubois sent a pass in behind for Toko-Ekambi. He got his shot away at the second attempt but hit the upright.

Just 49 seconds after that, Lyon were behind.

Gnabry cut in from the right into the middle before letting fly from just inside the box. His thumping left-foot strike gave Anthony Lopes no chance.

It was a different game after that and Gnabry made it 2-0 in the 33rd minute.

He stole possession in the Lyon half and laid the ball out to Ivan Perisic. The Croatian's low cross should have been converted by Lewandowski. Lopes saved from him but Gnabry converted the follow-up.

Substitute Philippe Coutinho had a late effort disallowed for offside, before Lewandowski made it 3-0 as he headed home Joshua Kimmich's free-kick.

Bayern now have 20 consecutive victories and are unbeaten in 29 matches, a run that began last December. Just a few weeks before that Bayern were in a mess, having sacked coach Niko Kovac.

The transformation under Flick has been astonishing and they are now 90 minutes away from ending this longest of seasons with a treble.

Serge Gnabry struck a first-half brace and Robert Lewandowski also scored as a ruthless Bayern Munich taught Lyon a harsh lesson in their Champions League semi-final in Lisbon on Wednesday, winning 3-0 to set up a tantalising final against Paris Saint-Germain.

Serge Gnabry struck a first-half brace and Robert Lewandowski also scored as a ruthless Bayern Munich taught Lyon a harsh lesson in their Champions League semi-final in Lisbon on Wednesday, winning 3-0 to set up a tantalising final against Paris Saint-Germain. Lyon squandered two golden opportunities to go ahead early on at the Estadio Jose Alvalade, through Memphis Depay and Karl Toko-Ekambi. Within seconds of the latter miss, Gnabry had blasted Bayern into an 18th-minute lead in stunning style, and the Germany winger scored again just after the half-hour mark. Gnabry, who scored four times in Bayern's 7-2 annihilation of Tottenham Hotspur in the group stage, has now scored nine in nine appearances in this season's competition. Lewandowski's inevitable goal, his 55th of the season, came two minutes from time. Bayern as a team have 42 goals in 10 Champions League outings, with this more modest victory following their 8-2 trouncing of Barcelona in the quarter-finals. "We knew this would be a hard game," insisted coach Hansi Flick. "We needed a bit of luck to get through the opening stages before Serge made the difference." They have won all their European matches this season but the biggest test awaits, against a PSG side who will be a step up from what they faced here. Lyon came seventh in the last French season, which was shortened because of the coronavirus pandemic. PSG won Ligue 1 and crushed RB Leipzig 3-0 in their semi-final. It promises to be an enthralling final, even in the bizarre atmosphere behind closed doors in Portugal's capital. "For me, it's a dream come true. Playing in the UEFA Champions League and making it to the final. It's everything you can ask for," Bayern's Alphonso Davies told BT Sport. The German champions will be looking to win their sixth European Cup, seven years on from their last Champions League triumph. It will be their 11th final altogether, against a club appearing in their first ever final. For Lyon there will be disappointment as their second semi-final appearance ends the same way as their first, a defeat by Bayern in 2010. - Step too far - This was a step too far for Rudi Garcia's side following their shock successes against Juventus and Manchester City. Now they must rouse themselves for a new Ligue 1 season which is just about to start, but there will be no European football at all for Lyon in 2020/21, for the first time in 24 years. They would have had to win this Champions League just to qualify again, and to be fair they will wonder what might have been in this semi-final had they taken at least one of those early chances. "Congratulations to Bayern. I don't think they were unbeatable," said Toko-Ekambi. "We had chances to score and we played well." Bayern certainly take risks with their incredibly high line, inviting opponents to try to get in behind them. Lyon's chance arrived inside the fourth minute. Maxence Caqueret intercepted a Thiago Alcantara pass, looked up and released Depay. The Dutchman went round Manuel Neuer but, with the angle tightening, he could only find the side-netting with his shot. - Astonishing transformation - The next big let-off for the Bavarians came when Leo Dubois sent a pass in behind for Toko-Ekambi. He got his shot away at the second attempt but hit the upright. Just 49 seconds after that, Lyon were behind. Gnabry cut in from the right into the middle before letting fly from just inside the box. His thumping left-foot strike gave Anthony Lopes no chance. It was a different game after that and Gnabry made it 2-0 in the 33rd minute. He stole possession in the Lyon half and laid the ball out to Ivan Perisic. The Croatian's low cross should have been converted by Lewandowski. Lopes saved from him but Gnabry converted the follow-up. Substitute Philippe Coutinho had a late effort disallowed for offside, before Lewandowski made it 3-0 as he headed home Joshua Kimmich's free-kick. Bayern now have 20 consecutive victories and are unbeaten in 29 matches, a run that began last December. Just a few weeks before that Bayern were in a mess, having sacked coach Niko Kovac. The transformation under Flick has been astonishing and they are now 90 minutes away from ending this longest of seasons with a treble.

Gnabry and Lewandowski fire ruthless Bayern into Champions League final

Just days after a humiliating loss to Bayern Munich, Barcelona's star captain Lionel Messi has told to the club that he wants to leave the club this summer.&nbsp;

FC Barcelona were thrashed 8-2 by Bayern Munich in their Champions League quarter-final on Friday night. According to Esporte Interativo, Lionel Messi has grown weary of the lack of planning at the club and wants an immediate exit.

It is said that the football maestro feels "isolated" after consecutively failing to win the Champions League and losing the La Liga title to their arch-rivals Real Madrid.&nbsp;

Manchester City are the favourites to secure a deal for Lionel Messi and the fans can witness him reunite with former boss Pep Guardiola.&nbsp;

Messi has been in conflict with Barcelona's top brass including the club president Josep Maria Bartomeu for over a year.&nbsp;

Lionel Messi has a clause in his contract that allows him to leave on a free transfer after a season has ended. But the clause expired in May this year.&nbsp;

Barcelona's all-time top scorer Lionel Messi's buyout clause is at whopping £635 million, which is out of the reach of every club, but the club don’t have the money to finance the squad rebuild so they might sacrifice their most precious asset to make it happen.

Just days after a humiliating loss to Bayern Munich, Barcelona's star captain Lionel Messi has told to the club that he wants to leave the club this summer. FC Barcelona were thrashed 8-2 by Bayern Munich in their Champions League quarter-final on Friday night.

Just days after a humiliating loss to Bayern Munich, Barcelona's star captain Lionel Messi has told to the club that he wants to leave the club this summer. FC Barcelona were thrashed 8-2 by Bayern Munich in their Champions League quarter-final on Friday night. According to Esporte Interativo, Lionel Messi has grown weary of the lack of planning at the club and wants an immediate exit. It is said that the football maestro feels "isolated" after consecutively failing to win the Champions League and losing the La Liga title to their arch-rivals Real Madrid. Manchester City are the favourites to secure a deal for Lionel Messi and the fans can witness him reunite with former boss Pep Guardiola. Messi has been in conflict with Barcelona's top brass including the club president Josep Maria Bartomeu for over a year. Lionel Messi has a clause in his contract that allows him to leave on a free transfer after a season has ended. But the clause expired in May this year. Barcelona's all-time top scorer Lionel Messi's buyout clause is at whopping £635 million, which is out of the reach of every club, but the club don’t have the money to finance the squad rebuild so they might sacrifice their most precious asset to make it happen.

Football star Lionel Messi tells Barcelona that he wants to leave 'immediately'

Bayern Munich chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge said Tuesday he is "cautiously optimistic" of keeping David Alaba but is braced to lose Liverpool target Thiago Alcantara once the Champions League finishes in Lisbon.

Having routed Chelsea 7-1 on aggregate in the last 16 following Saturday's 4-1 win in Munich in the return leg, Bayern face Barcelona in the quarter-finals on Friday in a clash of European heavyweights.

With a year left on their contracts, both defender Alaba and central midfielder Alcantara are stalling over extensions.

Alcantara, 29, who has been heavily linked to Liverpool, has long since signalled to the club that he wants to leave.

So far, the Spaniard, who has won the Bundesliga title in each of his seven seasons in Munich, has rejected all of Bayern's efforts to keep him.

"It is known that he wants to do something new. If a club comes to us and offers a fair sum, we will deal with it," Rummenigge said with an air of resignation at a media event in Munich on Tuesday.

However, he is "cautiously optimistic" about keeping Alaba, because "we are working on a solution". &nbsp;

Austrian star Alaba, 28, refused to talk about his future after Saturday's victory over Chelsea.

He said he is focused solely on the Champions League as Bayern bid for the treble, having already claimed an eighth straight Bundesliga title and lifted the German Cup.

Rummenigge has also ruled out extending the one-year loan deal of Philippe Coutinho, who will return to Barcelona next season.

Rummenigge said that because of the coronavirus pandemic Bayern Munich "cannot make any further investments of this magnitude in these difficult economic times, which are also difficult for us."

Bayern Munich chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge said Tuesday he is "cautiously optimistic" of keeping David Alaba but is braced to lose Liverpool target Thiago Alcantara once the Champions League finishes in Lisbon.

Bayern Munich chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge said Tuesday he is "cautiously optimistic" of keeping David Alaba but is braced to lose Liverpool target Thiago Alcantara once the Champions League finishes in Lisbon. Having routed Chelsea 7-1 on aggregate in the last 16 following Saturday's 4-1 win in Munich in the return leg, Bayern face Barcelona in the quarter-finals on Friday in a clash of European heavyweights. With a year left on their contracts, both defender Alaba and central midfielder Alcantara are stalling over extensions. Alcantara, 29, who has been heavily linked to Liverpool, has long since signalled to the club that he wants to leave. So far, the Spaniard, who has won the Bundesliga title in each of his seven seasons in Munich, has rejected all of Bayern's efforts to keep him. "It is known that he wants to do something new. If a club comes to us and offers a fair sum, we will deal with it," Rummenigge said with an air of resignation at a media event in Munich on Tuesday. However, he is "cautiously optimistic" about keeping Alaba, because "we are working on a solution". Austrian star Alaba, 28, refused to talk about his future after Saturday's victory over Chelsea. He said he is focused solely on the Champions League as Bayern bid for the treble, having already claimed an eighth straight Bundesliga title and lifted the German Cup. Rummenigge has also ruled out extending the one-year loan deal of Philippe Coutinho, who will return to Barcelona next season. Rummenigge said that because of the coronavirus pandemic Bayern Munich "cannot make any further investments of this magnitude in these difficult economic times, which are also difficult for us."

Alcantara set to leave but Bayern 'cautiously optimistic' of keeping Alaba

Bayern Munich are hoping Champions League success can convince Thiago Alcantara and David Alaba, who are stalling over extensions, to stay.

Bayern host Chelsea at Munich's Allianz Arena on Saturday in the last 16, second leg of the Champions League holding a 3-0 lead after hammering the Blues in London in February when Serge Gnabry scored twice in a gala display.

Since then, Bayern have secured an eighth straight Bundesliga title and lifted the German Cup putting them on course for the treble having won all 11 games post lockdown.&nbsp;

Chelsea are without wingers Christian Pulisic, who injured his hamstring in the FA Cup final defeat to Arsenal, and Pedro, who underwent shoulder surgery after being stretchered off at Wembley.

Blues skipper Cesar Azpilicueta&nbsp;is also expected to miss the Munich match after his hamstring injury added to Chelsea's list of wounded.

Bayern's personnel concerns are of a different nature as Alcantara, who has been linked to Liverpool, and Alaba, &nbsp;both have one year left on their contracts and are stalling over talks.

Like senior club bosses, forward Thomas Mueller hopes Champions League success can convince them to stay.

"Thiago is very safe on the ball, which does us good, and it is often underestimated how much he works to win back the ball," Mueller told Munich-based newspaper Sueddeutche Zeitung.

"David is extremely important for controlling and building up our game."

Mueller, a 2014 World Cup winner, says it would be "extremely bitter" if both Alcantara and Alaba left at the end of Bayern's Champions League campaign.

Nothing is likely to be decided while Bayern are still in Europe, yet both are in great form.

Alaba, 28, who joined as a teenager in 2008, has been dubbed "the black Franz Beckenbauer" by Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge for his outstanding displays at centre-back this season.

With right-back Benjamin Pavard injured, Joshua Kimmich has switched back into defence with his central midfield place going to Thiago, who was outstanding in last Friday's 1-0 friendly win over Marseille.

Last week, Rummenigge revealed Alcantara has signalled "that he wants to do something new", but so far no club has made an offer for the 29-year-old.

Having joined from Barcelona in 2013, under former Bayern coach Pep Guardiola, Alcantara has won the German league title in each of his seven seasons in Munich.

Rummenigge has made it clear neither will leave cheaply, "despite the coronavirus, there will not be a summer sale at FC Bayern", who reportedly want at least 30 million euros ($35 million) for Alcantara and more for Alaba.

However, for now it is just "important that both concentrate on the Champions League, then we will decide in peace," added Rummenigge.

Bayern Munich are hoping Champions League success can convince Thiago Alcantara and David Alaba, who are stalling over extensions, to stay. Bayern host Chelsea at Munich's Allianz Arena on Saturday in the last 16, second leg of the Champions League holding a 3-0 lead after hammering the Blues in London in February when Serge Gnabry scored twice in a gala display.

Bayern Munich are hoping Champions League success can convince Thiago Alcantara and David Alaba, who are stalling over extensions, to stay. Bayern host Chelsea at Munich's Allianz Arena on Saturday in the last 16, second leg of the Champions League holding a 3-0 lead after hammering the Blues in London in February when Serge Gnabry scored twice in a gala display. Since then, Bayern have secured an eighth straight Bundesliga title and lifted the German Cup putting them on course for the treble having won all 11 games post lockdown. Chelsea are without wingers Christian Pulisic, who injured his hamstring in the FA Cup final defeat to Arsenal, and Pedro, who underwent shoulder surgery after being stretchered off at Wembley. Blues skipper Cesar Azpilicueta is also expected to miss the Munich match after his hamstring injury added to Chelsea's list of wounded. Bayern's personnel concerns are of a different nature as Alcantara, who has been linked to Liverpool, and Alaba, both have one year left on their contracts and are stalling over talks. Like senior club bosses, forward Thomas Mueller hopes Champions League success can convince them to stay. "Thiago is very safe on the ball, which does us good, and it is often underestimated how much he works to win back the ball," Mueller told Munich-based newspaper Sueddeutche Zeitung. "David is extremely important for controlling and building up our game." Mueller, a 2014 World Cup winner, says it would be "extremely bitter" if both Alcantara and Alaba left at the end of Bayern's Champions League campaign. Nothing is likely to be decided while Bayern are still in Europe, yet both are in great form. Alaba, 28, who joined as a teenager in 2008, has been dubbed "the black Franz Beckenbauer" by Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge for his outstanding displays at centre-back this season. With right-back Benjamin Pavard injured, Joshua Kimmich has switched back into defence with his central midfield place going to Thiago, who was outstanding in last Friday's 1-0 friendly win over Marseille. Last week, Rummenigge revealed Alcantara has signalled "that he wants to do something new", but so far no club has made an offer for the 29-year-old. Having joined from Barcelona in 2013, under former Bayern coach Pep Guardiola, Alcantara has won the German league title in each of his seven seasons in Munich. Rummenigge has made it clear neither will leave cheaply, "despite the coronavirus, there will not be a summer sale at FC Bayern", who reportedly want at least 30 million euros ($35 million) for Alcantara and more for Alaba. However, for now it is just "important that both concentrate on the Champions League, then we will decide in peace," added Rummenigge.

Bayern hope Champions League success can convince Alcantara, Alaba to stay

Bundesliga Champions Bayern Munich have clinched the German Cup after beating Bayern Leverkusen 4-2 at the Olympiastadion in Berlin on Saturday. The German giants are having a dream season as they hope to complete a treble of championships.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serie-a-ronaldo-and-dybala-star-as-juventus-beat-torina-4-1-buffon-hits-another-milestone-310821" hreflang="en">Serie A: Ronaldo and Dybala star as Juventus beat Torina 4-1; Buffon hits another milestone</a>

David Alaba opened the score for Bayern Munich after a free-kick in the 16th minute. Serge Gnabry scored in the 24th minute. Robert &nbsp;Lewandowski continued his prolific form and smashed two decisive goals and helped Munich lift the cup for the 20th time. &nbsp;

The Polish striker scored his 50th goal of the season. &nbsp;

Munich hopes to complete the year with a treble by winning the final championship UEFA Champions League. They will play the second leg of Round of 16 against Chelsea. They won the first-leg 3-0.&nbsp;

Leverkusen opened their account four minutes later when Sven Bender headed home at the far post from a corner kick, but it was too little, too late as Lewandowski grabbed a second with a chip over the keeper in the 89th minute.

There was late drama when VAR spotted a handball in the box in stoppage time to award Leverkusen a penalty. Kai Havertz's consolation strike into the top corner proved to be the final kick of the game as Bayern defended their title.

(Inputs from Reuters)

Bundesliga Champions Bayern Munich have clinched the German Cup after beating Bayern Leverkusen 4-2 at the Olympiastadion in Berlin on Saturday. The German giants are having a dream season as they hope to complete a treble of championships.

Bundesliga Champions Bayern Munich have clinched the German Cup after beating Bayern Leverkusen 4-2 at the Olympiastadion in Berlin on Saturday. The German giants are having a dream season as they hope to complete a treble of championships. Also read: Serie A: Ronaldo and Dybala star as Juventus beat Torina 4-1; Buffon hits another milestone David Alaba opened the score for Bayern Munich after a free-kick in the 16th minute. Serge Gnabry scored in the 24th minute. Robert Lewandowski continued his prolific form and smashed two decisive goals and helped Munich lift the cup for the 20th time. The Polish striker scored his 50th goal of the season. Munich hopes to complete the year with a treble by winning the final championship UEFA Champions League. They will play the second leg of Round of 16 against Chelsea. They won the first-leg 3-0. Leverkusen opened their account four minutes later when Sven Bender headed home at the far post from a corner kick, but it was too little, too late as Lewandowski grabbed a second with a chip over the keeper in the 89th minute. There was late drama when VAR spotted a handball in the box in stoppage time to award Leverkusen a penalty. Kai Havertz's consolation strike into the top corner proved to be the final kick of the game as Bayern defended their title. (Inputs from Reuters)

Robert Lewandowski stars as Bayern Munich win DFB Pokal for 20th time; German giants eye treble finish to the season

Bayern Munich on Friday confirmed the signing of Germany winger Leroy Sane from Manchester City on a five-year contract for reportedly at least 50 million euros.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-fans-left-fuming-with-leroy-sane-set-to-join-bayern-munich-309914">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-fans-left-fuming-with-leroy-sane-set-to-join-bayern-munich-309914">Manchester City fans left fuming with Leroy Sane set to join Bayern Munich</a>

"FC Bayern is a very big club and has big goals - these goals suit me as well," said the 24-year-old, who added wants to win the Champions League with the Bundesliga giants.

"I'm looking forward to the new challenge and can't wait to train with the team."

Sane is looking forward to linking up again with Bayern head coach Hansi Flick, who has just steered the club to an eighth straight league title in his first season in charge.

"I know Hansi Flick from the U21 national team, we had a very good relationship there," added Sane.

"I want to win as many titles as possible with FC Bayern, and the Champions League is at the top."

The Bundesliga champions did not give the transfer fee, but Sky&nbsp;Sports&nbsp;and the BBC have reported that Bayern and City agreed a fee of £54.8 million (59.97 million euros, $67.36 million).

German daily Bild claim the fee is around "at least 50 million euros".

"We are happy that we can welcome Leroy Sane to Bayern," said club chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge.

"He is an excellent player who has proven his qualities over the past years, especially in the national team.

"Our goal is to gather the best German players at FC Bayern and Leroy's commitment confirms that."

The 24-year-old will start preparing for next season in Munich next week, the club has said, meaning he will sit out Saturday's German Cup final against Bayer Leverkusen in Berlin.

Last year, Sane had reportedly been on the verge of a three-digit million euros transfer to Bayern before suffering a serious knee injury in August which sidelined him until February.

After rebuilding his fitness, the Germany international made his first Premier League appearance of the season as a substitute against Burnley last week.

His transfer became an open secret after City manager Pep Guardiola revealed earlier this week that Sane was likely to leave after rejecting a new contract offer with a year left on his contract in Manchester.

"We wish Leroy all the best in this new chapter of his career," said Guardiola in a statement on Friday.

"Leroy has been part of one of the most special periods in this club’s history and he leaves with the best wishes of everyone here at Manchester City."

Sane, who won the Premier League title twice with City, has scored 39 goals in 135 matches in all competitions for the Citizens since joining from Bundesliga club Schalke in 2016.

The fleet-footed winger will bolster Bayern's attack out wide.

"With Serge Gnabry, Kingsley Coman and Leroy, we are now very well occupied at the highest level on the wing, positions that are important for our game," said Bayern&nbsp;sports&nbsp;director Hasan Salihamidzic.

Sane is Bayern's third new signing for next season alongside French teenage defender Tanguy Nianzou Kouassi from Paris Saint-Germain and goalkeeper Alexander Nuebel from Schalke, both of which were free transfers.

Bayern Munich on Friday confirmed the signing of Germany winger Leroy Sane from Manchester City on a five-year contract for reportedly at least 50 million euros.

Bayern Munich on Friday confirmed the signing of Germany winger Leroy Sane from Manchester City on a five-year contract for reportedly at least 50 million euros. Also read: Manchester City fans left fuming with Leroy Sane set to join Bayern Munich "FC Bayern is a very big club and has big goals - these goals suit me as well," said the 24-year-old, who added wants to win the Champions League with the Bundesliga giants. "I'm looking forward to the new challenge and can't wait to train with the team." Sane is looking forward to linking up again with Bayern head coach Hansi Flick, who has just steered the club to an eighth straight league title in his first season in charge. "I know Hansi Flick from the U21 national team, we had a very good relationship there," added Sane. "I want to win as many titles as possible with FC Bayern, and the Champions League is at the top." The Bundesliga champions did not give the transfer fee, but Sky Sports and the BBC have reported that Bayern and City agreed a fee of £54.8 million (59.97 million euros, $67.36 million). German daily Bild claim the fee is around "at least 50 million euros". "We are happy that we can welcome Leroy Sane to Bayern," said club chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge. "He is an excellent player who has proven his qualities over the past years, especially in the national team. "Our goal is to gather the best German players at FC Bayern and Leroy's commitment confirms that." The 24-year-old will start preparing for next season in Munich next week, the club has said, meaning he will sit out Saturday's German Cup final against Bayer Leverkusen in Berlin. Last year, Sane had reportedly been on the verge of a three-digit million euros transfer to Bayern before suffering a serious knee injury in August which sidelined him until February. After rebuilding his fitness, the Germany international made his first Premier League appearance of the season as a substitute against Burnley last week. His transfer became an open secret after City manager Pep Guardiola revealed earlier this week that Sane was likely to leave after rejecting a new contract offer with a year left on his contract in Manchester. "We wish Leroy all the best in this new chapter of his career," said Guardiola in a statement on Friday. "Leroy has been part of one of the most special periods in this club’s history and he leaves with the best wishes of everyone here at Manchester City." Sane, who won the Premier League title twice with City, has scored 39 goals in 135 matches in all competitions for the Citizens since joining from Bundesliga club Schalke in 2016. The fleet-footed winger will bolster Bayern's attack out wide. "With Serge Gnabry, Kingsley Coman and Leroy, we are now very well occupied at the highest level on the wing, positions that are important for our game," said Bayern sports director Hasan Salihamidzic. Sane is Bayern's third new signing for next season alongside French teenage defender Tanguy Nianzou Kouassi from Paris Saint-Germain and goalkeeper Alexander Nuebel from Schalke, both of which were free transfers.

Bayern Munich confirm Leroy Sane signing from Manchester City

Leroy Sane's transfer to Bayern Munich has left many Manchester City fans fuming.&nbsp;

The Bundesliga Champions had shown their interest in the player last year but they dropped the plan after Sane got injured during a match against Liverpool.&nbsp;

Man City agreed to a €45 million deal with Bayern Munich, this deal included €11 million in add-ons.&nbsp;

Winger Leroy Sane is set to sign a five-year-deal worth €22 million, this is double the amount Man City had offered in contract negotiations.&nbsp;

City fans took out their anger on Twitter, some said the fee was too as compared to player's abilities.&nbsp;

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Leroy Sané to Bayern for under €50m is an incredible signing. They have managed to successfully replace Robben &amp; Ribery with Gnabry &amp; Sané. An incredible duo alongside Lewandowski. Further highlights the importance of effective and efficient management by directors at a club.
— TR (@TacticalRole) <a href="https://twitter.com/TacticalRole/status/1278017227569029121?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Manchester City going to replace Leroy Sane with Jack Grealish? <a href="https://t.co/iMf1LtiYhe">pic.twitter.com/iMf1LtiYhe</a>
— Lee Lloyd (@leelloyd_) <a href="https://twitter.com/leelloyd_/status/1278015190966001664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Man City coach Pep Guardiola said that the team is unlikely to buy a replacement for Sane as there are many options in the team.&nbsp;

He said: "I don’t know if he (Sane) is going to leave this summer or at the end of his contract but we have enough good players upfront.

"Gabriel (Jesus) can play on the left, Phil Foden can play on the left, we have Raheem (Sterling) there. We have big, talented players upfront.

“Most of them are in good healthy conditions, like Phil, Riyad (Mahrez), Gabriel, Raheem, they can play quite regularly for a long period, they are so stable in terms of injury situations.

"I think we have other priorities maybe. And I don’t know, after the coronavirus, if the situation economically and financially for the clubs is changing.

“I don’t know what the situation is. We’re going to see at the end of this season.” 
&nbsp;

Leroy Sane's transfer to Bayern Munich has left many Manchester City fans fuming. The Bundesliga Champions had shown their interest in the player last year but they dropped the plan after Sane got injured during a match against Liverpool.

Leroy Sane's transfer to Bayern Munich has left many Manchester City fans fuming. The Bundesliga Champions had shown their interest in the player last year but they dropped the plan after Sane got injured during a match against Liverpool. Man City agreed to a €45 million deal with Bayern Munich, this deal included €11 million in add-ons. Winger Leroy Sane is set to sign a five-year-deal worth €22 million, this is double the amount Man City had offered in contract negotiations. City fans took out their anger on Twitter, some said the fee was too as compared to player's abilities. Leroy Sané to Bayern for under €50m is an incredible signing. They have managed to successfully replace Robben & Ribery with Gnabry & Sané. An incredible duo alongside Lewandowski. Further highlights the importance of effective and efficient management by directors at a club. — TR (@TacticalRole) June 30, 2020 × Manchester City going to replace Leroy Sane with Jack Grealish? pic.twitter.com/iMf1LtiYhe — Lee Lloyd (@leelloyd_) June 30, 2020 × Man City coach Pep Guardiola said that the team is unlikely to buy a replacement for Sane as there are many options in the team. He said: "I don’t know if he (Sane) is going to leave this summer or at the end of his contract but we have enough good players upfront. "Gabriel (Jesus) can play on the left, Phil Foden can play on the left, we have Raheem (Sterling) there. We have big, talented players upfront. “Most of them are in good healthy conditions, like Phil, Riyad (Mahrez), Gabriel, Raheem, they can play quite regularly for a long period, they are so stable in terms of injury situations. "I think we have other priorities maybe. And I don’t know, after the coronavirus, if the situation economically and financially for the clubs is changing. “I don’t know what the situation is. We’re going to see at the end of this season.”

Manchester City fans left fuming with Leroy Sane set to join Bayern Munich

Bayern Munich has won its eighth successive Bundesliga title after winning against Werder Bremen after the winning goal was scored by Robert Lewandowski.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-will-the-bundesliga-champions-celebrate-the-title-in-times-of-coronavirus-306254" hreflang="en">How will the Bundesliga champions celebrate the title in times of coronavirus?</a>

This is Bayern's 11th consecutive win in the league and has put them 10 points clear of Borussia Dortmund. Dortmund has three games left.&nbsp;

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🏆 2020 
🏆 2019 
🏆 2018 
🏆 2017 
🏆 2016 
🏆 2015 
🏆 2014 
🏆 2013 
 
𝑇𝑖𝑚𝑒 𝑡𝑜 𝑐𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑏𝑟𝒆𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 🎉<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MEI8TER?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MEI8TER</a> <a href="https://t.co/boERc9HOia">pic.twitter.com/boERc9HOia</a>
— FC Bayern English (@FCBayernEN) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBayernEN/status/1272989949479002112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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In the match against Werder Bremen, Bayern was reduced to 10 men after Alphonso Davies was sent off for two yellow-card offences.

Bayern's striker Lewandowski has equalled Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's scoring record in a single-season by a foreign player in the league. Lewandowski scored 31 goals this season and Aubameyang, who currently plays for Arsenal, scored 31 goals in Bundesliga for Borussia Dortmund in 2016-17.&nbsp;

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Bundesliga Champions 2020! Despite the difficult conditions in the last weeks we can celebrate the eighth German Championship in a row. Congrats to the team and all members of <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBayern?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FCBayern</a>! These times show the great cohesion of this club and I'm proud of being a part of it 🏆🔴⚪ <a href="https://t.co/kRO4xX7rQ3">pic.twitter.com/kRO4xX7rQ3</a>
— Oliver Kahn (@OliverKahn) <a href="https://twitter.com/OliverKahn/status/1273021237707649026?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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This year's celebrations were toned down due to coronavirus pandemic after the full time whistle the players' delighted shouts echoed in the empty stadiums. Their manager Hansi Flick, who is also a four-time Bundesliga winner with Bayern as a player, said: "It is sensational the kind of football we have played in the past few months."

"You could feel the passion, the joy for the game and the team spirit."

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🎵CHAMPIOOOOOOONES, CHAMPIOOOOOOONES!🎵🏆🔴⚪️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MEI8TER?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MEI8TER</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MiaSanMia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MiaSanMia</a> <a href="https://t.co/gZ5KnwRhFL">pic.twitter.com/gZ5KnwRhFL</a>
— FC Bayern English (@FCBayernEN) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBayernEN/status/1273023088758788097?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The German giants have progressed to the final of the German Cup and will face Bayer Leverkusen on July 4 in Berlin. Their Champions League campaign is yet to resume. They will be facing Chelsea for the second leg of the round of 16 ties. In the first leg, Bayern beat Chelsea 3-0.

"We have now taken the first step and reached our big goal," added Flick.

"But we also have the cup in our sights and then obviously the Champions League games are something you cannot plan for and we still need to survive the Chelsea game."

Few records were equalled after Bayern secured their eighth Bundesliga title. David Alaba and Thomas Muller have equalled Frack Ribery's record by winning their ninth league title.&nbsp;

Hansi Flick has become the third person to win the Bundesliga title for Bayern both as a player and a manager, after Franz Beckenbauer and Niko Kovac.

Bayern Munich has won its eighth successive Bundesliga title after winning against Werder Bremen after the winning goal was scored by Robert Lewandowski. Also read: How will the Bundesliga champions celebrate the title in times of coronavirus?

Bayern Munich has won its eighth successive Bundesliga title after winning against Werder Bremen after the winning goal was scored by Robert Lewandowski. Also read: How will the Bundesliga champions celebrate the title in times of coronavirus? This is Bayern's 11th consecutive win in the league and has put them 10 points clear of Borussia Dortmund. Dortmund has three games left. 🏆 2020 🏆 2019 🏆 2018 🏆 2017 🏆 2016 🏆 2015 🏆 2014 🏆 2013 𝑇𝑖𝑚𝑒 𝑡𝑜 𝑐𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑏𝑟𝒆𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 🎉#MEI8TER pic.twitter.com/boERc9HOia — FC Bayern English (@FCBayernEN) June 16, 2020 × In the match against Werder Bremen, Bayern was reduced to 10 men after Alphonso Davies was sent off for two yellow-card offences. Bayern's striker Lewandowski has equalled Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's scoring record in a single-season by a foreign player in the league. Lewandowski scored 31 goals this season and Aubameyang, who currently plays for Arsenal, scored 31 goals in Bundesliga for Borussia Dortmund in 2016-17. Bundesliga Champions 2020! Despite the difficult conditions in the last weeks we can celebrate the eighth German Championship in a row. Congrats to the team and all members of @FCBayern! These times show the great cohesion of this club and I'm proud of being a part of it 🏆🔴⚪ pic.twitter.com/kRO4xX7rQ3 — Oliver Kahn (@OliverKahn) June 16, 2020 × This year's celebrations were toned down due to coronavirus pandemic after the full time whistle the players' delighted shouts echoed in the empty stadiums. Their manager Hansi Flick, who is also a four-time Bundesliga winner with Bayern as a player, said: "It is sensational the kind of football we have played in the past few months." "You could feel the passion, the joy for the game and the team spirit." 🎵CHAMPIOOOOOOONES, CHAMPIOOOOOOONES!🎵🏆🔴⚪️#MEI8TER #MiaSanMia pic.twitter.com/gZ5KnwRhFL — FC Bayern English (@FCBayernEN) June 16, 2020 × The German giants have progressed to the final of the German Cup and will face Bayer Leverkusen on July 4 in Berlin. Their Champions League campaign is yet to resume. They will be facing Chelsea for the second leg of the round of 16 ties. In the first leg, Bayern beat Chelsea 3-0. "We have now taken the first step and reached our big goal," added Flick. "But we also have the cup in our sights and then obviously the Champions League games are something you cannot plan for and we still need to survive the Chelsea game." Few records were equalled after Bayern secured their eighth Bundesliga title. David Alaba and Thomas Muller have equalled Frack Ribery's record by winning their ninth league title. Hansi Flick has become the third person to win the Bundesliga title for Bayern both as a player and a manager, after Franz Beckenbauer and Niko Kovac.

Bayern Munich win eighth successive Bundesliga title; celebrations toned down due to COVID-19

Bayern Munich can be crowned German champions on Tuesday with victory at Werder Bremen, but any festivities will be reduced to a minimum to respect the safety measures in place to combat the coronavirus.

<h2>When will Bayern be declared champions?</h2>

The German league (DFL) said, in its rules governing the restart, that the champion and relegated sides will not officially be declared until the last round of matches. In theory, if the league was interrupted again by the pandemic, the final standings could be reviewed.&nbsp;

As a result, the "Schale", or winners' trophy, will not be awarded until the end of the season, on June 27 when Bayern play Wolfsburg.

<h2>What kind of ceremony awaits the champions?</h2>

The DFL will not reveal its plans until the champions are known, but any celebrations will be subdued given the hygiene measures in place.&nbsp;

These rules place a limit of 100 people allowed in the "interior zone", the pitch and substitutes' bench. That means Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge and other club officials, who have clearance to be in the stands, will not be able to get down on the pitch.

In keeping with rules since the restart, there will be no supporters or family members present either.

<h2>What happens to the traditional beer shower?</h2>

The traditional beer shower, to which Bayern have grown accustomed, is also banned under current league regulations.

"I would be happy if it didn't take place this year," said a smiling Hansi Flick, the Bayern coach whose first wheat beer drenching will have to wait.

<h2>What about the town hall parade?</h2>

The customary trophy presentation in front of supporters at the city's town hall has been cancelled in advance.

"Respecting this tradition is unfortunately unthinkable" this year, said Munich mayor Dieter Reiter.&nbsp;

"But I am sure an appropriate honour will be found if Bayern should win the title," he added, without giving further details.

<h2>Can Bayern celebrate as a group?</h2>

The team and staff members will be able to celebrate together, having been regularly tested for the virus and working in contact with each other for weeks.

If club directors, such as Rummenigge or former president Uli Hoeness wish to be involved, they must return two negative test results beforehand. Families and friends are not expected to be invited, however.

With the German Cup final to come on July 4, Bayern must continue to follow the league's strict health protocol until they meet Bayer Leverkusen in Berlin.

Bayern Munich can be crowned German champions on Tuesday with victory at Werder Bremen, but any festivities will be reduced to a minimum to respect the safety measures in place to combat the coronavirus.

Bayern Munich can be crowned German champions on Tuesday with victory at Werder Bremen, but any festivities will be reduced to a minimum to respect the safety measures in place to combat the coronavirus. When will Bayern be declared champions? The German league (DFL) said, in its rules governing the restart, that the champion and relegated sides will not officially be declared until the last round of matches. In theory, if the league was interrupted again by the pandemic, the final standings could be reviewed. As a result, the "Schale", or winners' trophy, will not be awarded until the end of the season, on June 27 when Bayern play Wolfsburg. What kind of ceremony awaits the champions? The DFL will not reveal its plans until the champions are known, but any celebrations will be subdued given the hygiene measures in place. These rules place a limit of 100 people allowed in the "interior zone", the pitch and substitutes' bench. That means Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge and other club officials, who have clearance to be in the stands, will not be able to get down on the pitch. In keeping with rules since the restart, there will be no supporters or family members present either. What happens to the traditional beer shower? The traditional beer shower, to which Bayern have grown accustomed, is also banned under current league regulations. "I would be happy if it didn't take place this year," said a smiling Hansi Flick, the Bayern coach whose first wheat beer drenching will have to wait. What about the town hall parade? The customary trophy presentation in front of supporters at the city's town hall has been cancelled in advance. "Respecting this tradition is unfortunately unthinkable" this year, said Munich mayor Dieter Reiter. "But I am sure an appropriate honour will be found if Bayern should win the title," he added, without giving further details. Can Bayern celebrate as a group? The team and staff members will be able to celebrate together, having been regularly tested for the virus and working in contact with each other for weeks. If club directors, such as Rummenigge or former president Uli Hoeness wish to be involved, they must return two negative test results beforehand. Families and friends are not expected to be invited, however. With the German Cup final to come on July 4, Bayern must continue to follow the league's strict health protocol until they meet Bayer Leverkusen in Berlin.

How to celebrate a title in times of coronavirus?

Bayern Munich can be crowned German champions on Tuesday with victory at Werder Bremen, but any festivities will be reduced to a minimum to respect the safety measures in place to combat the coronavirus.

When will Bayern be declared champions?

The German league (DFL) said, in its rules governing the restart, that the champion and relegated sides will not officially be declared until the last round of matches. In theory, if the league was interrupted again by the pandemic, the final standings could be reviewed.&nbsp;

As a result, the "Schale", or winners' trophy, will not be awarded until the end of the season, on June 27 when Bayern play Wolfsburg.

What kind of ceremony awaits the champions?

The DFL will not reveal its plans until the champions are known, but any celebrations will be subdued given the hygiene measures in place.&nbsp;

These rules place a limit of 100 people allowed in the "interior zone", the pitch and substitutes' bench. That means Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge and other club officials, who have clearance to be in the stands, will not be able to get down on the pitch.

In keeping with rules since the restart, there will be no supporters or family members present either.

What happens to the traditional beer shower?

The traditional beer shower, to which Bayern have grown accustomed, is also banned under current league regulations.

"I would be happy if it didn't take place this year," said a smiling Hansi Flick, the Bayern coach whose first wheat beer drenching will have to wait.

What about the town hall parade?

The customary trophy presentation in front of supporters at the city's town hall has been cancelled in advance.

"Respecting this tradition is unfortunately unthinkable" this year, said Munich mayor Dieter Reiter.&nbsp;

"But I am sure an appropriate honour will be found if Bayern should win the title," he added, without giving further details.

Can Bayern celebrate as a group?

The team and staff members will be able to celebrate together, having been regularly tested for the virus and working in contact with each other for weeks.

If club directors, such as Rummenigge or former president Uli Hoeness wish to be involved, they must return two negative test results beforehand. Families and friends are not expected to be invited, however.

With the German Cup final to come on July 4, Bayern must continue to follow the league's strict health protocol until they meet Bayer Leverkusen in Berlin.

How will the Bundesliga champions celebrate the title in times of coronavirus?

Bayern Munich face one of the final obstacles in their hunt for an eighth consecutive Bundesliga title this weekend as players in Germany contemplate staging collective protests following the death of George Floyd in the United States.

The German FA said on Wednesday footballers including Jadon Sancho who paid tributes to Floyd during last week's games would not be punished, with calls since growing from several Bayern players for further action.

"Sport always was and is able to share the power, to try to show to the world we are a community and that we are strong together," said Bayern forward Thomas Mueller, ahead of Saturday's game with Bayer Leverkusen.

"We have so many different people in the sport, it doesn't matter the colour. Sports have the power to bring people together to speak with one tongue."&nbsp;

Joshua Kimmich revealed Bayern players have talked about using their platform to reinforce their stance against racism, while World Cup winner Jerome Boateng urged more famous white sportspeople to add their voices to the chorus of outrage over Floyd's death.&nbsp;

Floyd, a black American man, died after a white policeman kneeled on his neck for several minutes. His death has sparked several days of protests in US cities, some of which have turned violent amid accusations of further police brutality used against demonstrators.

<h2>- 'We can do much more' -</h2>

"Our voices carry, we have a platform and we touch many people," Boateng, whose father is from Ghana, told Deutsche Welle radio.

"All white sportspeople who don't speak out are obviously not racists, but of course it is desirable that they also use their notoriety for this cause. Many do it, but I think we can do much more."

With five games remaining Bayern hold a seven-point lead over Borussia Dortmund, whose players took a knee during Thursday's training session in support of the Black Lives Matter movement.

Dortmund coach Lucien Favre said he "stood 100 percent behind" Sancho's call for justice although a number of players including the England winger courted controversy after they were pictured without masks alongside a hairdresser.

At the other end of the table, Werder Bremen have slipped back deep into relegation trouble after a 3-0 defeat to Eintracht Frankfurt on Wednesday greatly complicated the task of maintaining their top-flight status.

The loss was all the more disappointing for the four-time champions after a 1-0 win at Freiburg on May 23 had given them hope. Werder are now three points from safety and need a positive result at home against Wolfsburg on Sunday.

"That was a setback but definitely not a knockout," Werder coach Florian Kohfeldt said after the Eintracht defeat. "It has become harder but it's not impossible. We all knew that it would be hard, but we're going to give it a go."

<h2>One to watch:&nbsp;Marcus Thuram</h2>

The Borussia Moenchengladbach striker has scored four times in as many games since the Bundesliga resumed last month to reach double digits in his debut season in Germany.

Thuram, the son of 1998 World Cup winner and anti-racism activist Lilian, made a statement of his own in last Sunday's 4-1 win over Union Berlin, kneeling and bowing his head after scoring the first of his two goals, in a gesture reminiscent of past protests by NFL players in the US against racism and police brutality.

Gladbach return to action on Friday at Freiburg as they jostle with RB Leipzig and Leverkusen for Champions League qualification.

<h2>Key stats</h2>

86 - Bayern's league goals this season. No team has ever scored as many times through 29 games of a Bundesliga campaign.

17 - seconds Stefan Ilsanker was on the field before scoring against Werder Bremen. The Austria international struck twice in Wednesday's 3-0 victory after coming on as a late substitute.

308 - Bundesliga appearances made by Japan's Makoto Hasebe, an Asian record he shares with South Korean great Cha Bum-kun.

Fixtures (all times GMT)

Friday

Freiburg v Borussia Moenchengladbach (1830)

Saturday

RB Leipzig v Paderborn, Bayer Leverkusen v Bayern Munich, Eintracht Frankfurt v Mainz, Fortuna Dusseldorf v Hoffenheim (all 1330), Borussia Dortmund v Hertha Berlin (1630)

Sunday

Werder Bremen v Wolfsburg (1130), Union Berlin v Schalke (1330), Augsburg v Cologne (1600)

Bayern Munich face one of the final obstacles in their hunt for an eighth consecutive Bundesliga title this weekend as players in Germany contemplate staging collective protests following the death of George Floyd in the United States.

Bayern Munich face one of the final obstacles in their hunt for an eighth consecutive Bundesliga title this weekend as players in Germany contemplate staging collective protests following the death of George Floyd in the United States. The German FA said on Wednesday footballers including Jadon Sancho who paid tributes to Floyd during last week's games would not be punished, with calls since growing from several Bayern players for further action. "Sport always was and is able to share the power, to try to show to the world we are a community and that we are strong together," said Bayern forward Thomas Mueller, ahead of Saturday's game with Bayer Leverkusen. "We have so many different people in the sport, it doesn't matter the colour. Sports have the power to bring people together to speak with one tongue." Joshua Kimmich revealed Bayern players have talked about using their platform to reinforce their stance against racism, while World Cup winner Jerome Boateng urged more famous white sportspeople to add their voices to the chorus of outrage over Floyd's death. Floyd, a black American man, died after a white policeman kneeled on his neck for several minutes. His death has sparked several days of protests in US cities, some of which have turned violent amid accusations of further police brutality used against demonstrators. - 'We can do much more' - "Our voices carry, we have a platform and we touch many people," Boateng, whose father is from Ghana, told Deutsche Welle radio. "All white sportspeople who don't speak out are obviously not racists, but of course it is desirable that they also use their notoriety for this cause. Many do it, but I think we can do much more." With five games remaining Bayern hold a seven-point lead over Borussia Dortmund, whose players took a knee during Thursday's training session in support of the Black Lives Matter movement. Dortmund coach Lucien Favre said he "stood 100 percent behind" Sancho's call for justice although a number of players including the England winger courted controversy after they were pictured without masks alongside a hairdresser. At the other end of the table, Werder Bremen have slipped back deep into relegation trouble after a 3-0 defeat to Eintracht Frankfurt on Wednesday greatly complicated the task of maintaining their top-flight status. The loss was all the more disappointing for the four-time champions after a 1-0 win at Freiburg on May 23 had given them hope. Werder are now three points from safety and need a positive result at home against Wolfsburg on Sunday. "That was a setback but definitely not a knockout," Werder coach Florian Kohfeldt said after the Eintracht defeat. "It has become harder but it's not impossible. We all knew that it would be hard, but we're going to give it a go." One to watch: Marcus Thuram The Borussia Moenchengladbach striker has scored four times in as many games since the Bundesliga resumed last month to reach double digits in his debut season in Germany. Thuram, the son of 1998 World Cup winner and anti-racism activist Lilian, made a statement of his own in last Sunday's 4-1 win over Union Berlin, kneeling and bowing his head after scoring the first of his two goals, in a gesture reminiscent of past protests by NFL players in the US against racism and police brutality. Gladbach return to action on Friday at Freiburg as they jostle with RB Leipzig and Leverkusen for Champions League qualification. Key stats 86 - Bayern's league goals this season. No team has ever scored as many times through 29 games of a Bundesliga campaign. 17 - seconds Stefan Ilsanker was on the field before scoring against Werder Bremen. The Austria international struck twice in Wednesday's 3-0 victory after coming on as a late substitute. 308 - Bundesliga appearances made by Japan's Makoto Hasebe, an Asian record he shares with South Korean great Cha Bum-kun. Fixtures (all times GMT) Friday Freiburg v Borussia Moenchengladbach (1830) Saturday RB Leipzig v Paderborn, Bayer Leverkusen v Bayern Munich, Eintracht Frankfurt v Mainz, Fortuna Dusseldorf v Hoffenheim (all 1330), Borussia Dortmund v Hertha Berlin (1630) Sunday Werder Bremen v Wolfsburg (1130), Union Berlin v Schalke (1330), Augsburg v Cologne (1600)

Growing calls for anti-racism protests as Bayern scent Bundesliga title

Bayern Munich opened a 10-point lead at the top of the Bundesliga on Saturday with a 5-0 drubbing of relegation-threatened Fortuna Dusseldorf behind closed doors with the league's top-scorer Robert Lewandowski scoring twice.

Duesseldorf defender Mathias Joergensen scored an early own goal before Benjamin Pavard, Lewandowski (2) and Alphonso Davies hit the target.

With five games left, Bayern, who have won their last eight league games, are comfortably on course for an eighth straight league title.

However, second-placed Borussia Dortmund could trim their lead on Sunday at bottom side Paderborn.

Lewandowski, who had never previously scored in six games against Duesseldorf, made amends with goals either side of half-time.

Fortuna, who were unbeaten in their three games since the league resumed after a two-month coronavirus-enforced hiatus, were humbled at the Allianz Arena where they last poached a 3-3 draw in November 2018.

They fell behind on 15 minutes when Joergensen turned the ball into his own net after Pavard mishit his shot.

Right-back Pavard then grabbed the second with a powerful header on 29 minutes before Lewandowski made it 3-0 just before the break after being presented with a tap-in by Thomas Mueller.

Duesseldorf were floored with two goals in as many minutes as Lewandowski profited again with another poacher's goal after Serge Gnabry's good work.

Davies then scored the game's best goal.

After some high pressing, the Canadian teen won the ball in the Duesseldorf area, barged past a succession of defenders and fired home to make it 5-0 on 52 minutes.

<h2>- US death protest -</h2>

Werder Bremen boosted their survival hopes with a 1-0 win at Schalke, who are winless in 11 games and continue to plummet.

Midfielder Leonardo Bittencourt scored a first-half winner.

"This is a very, very important away win," said Bremen coach Florian Kohfeldt.

"We have taken seven points from the last three games, but if you look at the table, we are still behind."

Bremen have spent more seasons in the Bundesliga than any other club, but currently sit second from bottom.

However, Saturday's victory leaves them just three points from guaranteed safety with six games left.

They are two points behind Duesseldorf in 16th, which carries a relegation play-off at the end of the season.

Werder could climb out of the relegation places for the first time since December on Wednesday if they beat Eintracht Frankfurt at home.

Bittencourt hit a stunning strike from just outside the box which beat Schalke's Bayern-bound goalkeeper Alexander Nuebel on 32 minutes.

Schalke succumbed to their fourth straight defeat, piling pressure on head coach David Wagner.&nbsp;

In the same game, Schalke's American midfielder Weston McKennie wore a 'Justice for George' armband as part of the growing protests over the death of an unarmed black man during a police arrest in the United States.

"To be able to use my platform to bring attention to a problem that has been going on too long feels good!!!," tweeted 21-year-old McKennie.

"We have to stand up for what we believe in and I believe that it is time that we are heard."

George Floyd died in Minneapolis in an arrest by a police officer who pinned him to the ground for several minutes by kneeling on his neck.&nbsp;

<h2>- Hertha on the rise -</h2>

Hertha remain unbeaten with three wins and a draw since Bruno Labbadia took charge during the lockdown after their 2-0 win at home to Augsburg thanks for goals by Javairo Dilrosun and Krzysztof Piatek.

Having routed Leverkusen 4-1 away on Tuesday, Wolfsburg&nbsp;crashed to a 2-1 defeat at home to 10-man Eintracht Frankfurt.

Japan midfielder Daichi Kamada scored the winner 10 minutes from time while Frankfurt had replacement midfielder Lucas Torro sent off in the dying stages for a second yellow card.

Frankfurt took the lead when striker Andre Silva converted a penalty on 27 minutes, but Wolfsburg equalised when right-back Kevin Mbabu headed home on 58 minutes.

Hoffenheim are seventh after their 1-0 win at Mainz thanks to Ihlas Bebou who darted into the area, swept past two defenders, and fired home on 43 minutes.

On Friday, Leverkusen went third when Germany midfielder Kai Havertz became the first player in Bundesliga history to score 35 goals before his 21st birthday to seal a 1-0 win at Freiburg.

Bayern Munich opened a 10-point lead at the top of the Bundesliga on Saturday with a 5-0 drubbing of relegation-threatened Fortuna Dusseldorf behind closed doors with the league's top-scorer Robert Lewandowski scoring twice.

Bayern Munich opened a 10-point lead at the top of the Bundesliga on Saturday with a 5-0 drubbing of relegation-threatened Fortuna Dusseldorf behind closed doors with the league's top-scorer Robert Lewandowski scoring twice. Duesseldorf defender Mathias Joergensen scored an early own goal before Benjamin Pavard, Lewandowski (2) and Alphonso Davies hit the target. With five games left, Bayern, who have won their last eight league games, are comfortably on course for an eighth straight league title. However, second-placed Borussia Dortmund could trim their lead on Sunday at bottom side Paderborn. Lewandowski, who had never previously scored in six games against Duesseldorf, made amends with goals either side of half-time. Fortuna, who were unbeaten in their three games since the league resumed after a two-month coronavirus-enforced hiatus, were humbled at the Allianz Arena where they last poached a 3-3 draw in November 2018. They fell behind on 15 minutes when Joergensen turned the ball into his own net after Pavard mishit his shot. Right-back Pavard then grabbed the second with a powerful header on 29 minutes before Lewandowski made it 3-0 just before the break after being presented with a tap-in by Thomas Mueller. Duesseldorf were floored with two goals in as many minutes as Lewandowski profited again with another poacher's goal after Serge Gnabry's good work. Davies then scored the game's best goal. After some high pressing, the Canadian teen won the ball in the Duesseldorf area, barged past a succession of defenders and fired home to make it 5-0 on 52 minutes. - US death protest - Werder Bremen boosted their survival hopes with a 1-0 win at Schalke, who are winless in 11 games and continue to plummet. Midfielder Leonardo Bittencourt scored a first-half winner. "This is a very, very important away win," said Bremen coach Florian Kohfeldt. "We have taken seven points from the last three games, but if you look at the table, we are still behind." Bremen have spent more seasons in the Bundesliga than any other club, but currently sit second from bottom. However, Saturday's victory leaves them just three points from guaranteed safety with six games left. They are two points behind Duesseldorf in 16th, which carries a relegation play-off at the end of the season. Werder could climb out of the relegation places for the first time since December on Wednesday if they beat Eintracht Frankfurt at home. Bittencourt hit a stunning strike from just outside the box which beat Schalke's Bayern-bound goalkeeper Alexander Nuebel on 32 minutes. Schalke succumbed to their fourth straight defeat, piling pressure on head coach David Wagner. In the same game, Schalke's American midfielder Weston McKennie wore a 'Justice for George' armband as part of the growing protests over the death of an unarmed black man during a police arrest in the United States. "To be able to use my platform to bring attention to a problem that has been going on too long feels good!!!," tweeted 21-year-old McKennie. "We have to stand up for what we believe in and I believe that it is time that we are heard." George Floyd died in Minneapolis in an arrest by a police officer who pinned him to the ground for several minutes by kneeling on his neck. - Hertha on the rise - Hertha remain unbeaten with three wins and a draw since Bruno Labbadia took charge during the lockdown after their 2-0 win at home to Augsburg thanks for goals by Javairo Dilrosun and Krzysztof Piatek. Having routed Leverkusen 4-1 away on Tuesday, Wolfsburg crashed to a 2-1 defeat at home to 10-man Eintracht Frankfurt. Japan midfielder Daichi Kamada scored the winner 10 minutes from time while Frankfurt had replacement midfielder Lucas Torro sent off in the dying stages for a second yellow card. Frankfurt took the lead when striker Andre Silva converted a penalty on 27 minutes, but Wolfsburg equalised when right-back Kevin Mbabu headed home on 58 minutes. Hoffenheim are seventh after their 1-0 win at Mainz thanks to Ihlas Bebou who darted into the area, swept past two defenders, and fired home on 43 minutes. On Friday, Leverkusen went third when Germany midfielder Kai Havertz became the first player in Bundesliga history to score 35 goals before his 21st birthday to seal a 1-0 win at Freiburg.

Lewandowski hits brace as Bayern Munich go 10 points clear

There might be no fans in the stadiums but the Bundesliga knows the world is watching and on Tuesday Bayern Munich's Thomas Mueller was part of its charm offensive.

Because of the coronavirus pandemic the German top-flight is the only top-level game on the planet and football fans everywhere are watching.&nbsp;

After scoring the only goal as Bayern won a crunch match in Dortmund, Joshua Kimmich displaced Donald Trump as the top-trending subject on Twitter in the US.

Cue Bayern veteran Mueller smiling and joking as he reached out to international viewers with a post-match interview in almost faultless English.

Mueller is known in his own country as a an interviewee with a sense of humour.&nbsp;

After the victory, he beamed as he faced a microphone and happily showed off his German sense of humour as he talked about the length of Roman Buerki's arms and compared teenage team-mate Alphonso Davies to the Roadrunner, complete with sound effects.

Mueller described Kimmich's game-winning lob over home keeper Buerki as "having a long hang time" while miming watching the ball pass over his head.

"I had a good feeling," he said.&nbsp;

"Roman Buerki is a great keeper but one of his strengths is that he is maybe one of two steps outside his goal because maybe he has not got the longest arms so with these one of two steps he tries to have a better angle and Joshua saw that."

The interviewer quickly asked about the impressive and pacy Canada wing-back Davies, who tracked back to tackle a counter-attacking Erling Braut Haaland in the first half.

"A player with a lot of heart and with extreme power," said Mueller, a 30-year-old Germany international. "Although sometimes he has not the best position."&nbsp;

"When the opponent thinks 'Oh, I have time,' 'meep, meep, meep' the Roadrunner comes and steals the ball."

Mueller was pleased with his team's display in a game in which both teams showed occasional signs of rust.

"We did a great performance. With the ball perhaps not our best, but with our heart and that's the most important thing," said Mueller, tapping his chest.

"This game is maybe the decider and we won it. It's a great feeling"

"It looks better than before."

There might be no fans in the stadiums but the Bundesliga knows the world is watching and on Tuesday Bayern Munich's Thomas Mueller was part of its charm offensive.

There might be no fans in the stadiums but the Bundesliga knows the world is watching and on Tuesday Bayern Munich's Thomas Mueller was part of its charm offensive. Because of the coronavirus pandemic the German top-flight is the only top-level game on the planet and football fans everywhere are watching. After scoring the only goal as Bayern won a crunch match in Dortmund, Joshua Kimmich displaced Donald Trump as the top-trending subject on Twitter in the US. Cue Bayern veteran Mueller smiling and joking as he reached out to international viewers with a post-match interview in almost faultless English. Mueller is known in his own country as a an interviewee with a sense of humour. After the victory, he beamed as he faced a microphone and happily showed off his German sense of humour as he talked about the length of Roman Buerki's arms and compared teenage team-mate Alphonso Davies to the Roadrunner, complete with sound effects. Mueller described Kimmich's game-winning lob over home keeper Buerki as "having a long hang time" while miming watching the ball pass over his head. "I had a good feeling," he said. "Roman Buerki is a great keeper but one of his strengths is that he is maybe one of two steps outside his goal because maybe he has not got the longest arms so with these one of two steps he tries to have a better angle and Joshua saw that." The interviewer quickly asked about the impressive and pacy Canada wing-back Davies, who tracked back to tackle a counter-attacking Erling Braut Haaland in the first half. "A player with a lot of heart and with extreme power," said Mueller, a 30-year-old Germany international. "Although sometimes he has not the best position." "When the opponent thinks 'Oh, I have time,' 'meep, meep, meep' the Roadrunner comes and steals the ball." Mueller was pleased with his team's display in a game in which both teams showed occasional signs of rust. "We did a great performance. With the ball perhaps not our best, but with our heart and that's the most important thing," said Mueller, tapping his chest. "This game is maybe the decider and we won it. It's a great feeling" "It looks better than before."

Bayern's Mueller turns on charm in English as Bundesliga woos world

Joshua Kimmich described his winning goal as "brutally important" after Bayern Munich took a huge step towards an eighth straight Bundesliga title on Tuesday with a 1-0 win at Borussia Dortmund to leave them seven points clear at the top with just six games left.

Kimmich's brilliant effort came just before half-time behind closed doors at Signal Iduna Park as hosts Dortmund missed the chance to turn up the heat on the Bavarians without the backing of their huge support.

"It was brutally important: I looked around to see if everyone understood how important it was," Kimmich said of his deft chip.

Kimmich's captain Manuel Neuer echoed the defensive midfielder's thoughts.

"That was a very important sign," said Neuer.

Bayern won 4-0 when the teams met in Munich in November and they kept up their excellent recent record against second-placed Dortmund.

"Now only Bayern can decide what happens," said frustrated Dortmund captain Mats Hummels.

"Sometimes, games are decided by brilliant moments and that was the case today."

Dortmund's star teenage striker, Erling Braut Haaland, who had scored ten goals in as many league games, failed to make an impact against Bayern's watertight defence before going off injured in the second half.

Jerome Boateng and David Alaba gave him no room, while Kimmich and Leon Goretzka in midfield made sure passes intended for him rarely met their mark. The Norway forward limped off with 20 minutes left after a heavy tackle from Boateng.

<h2>- Cleared chances -</h2>

Things might have been different, with Haaland coming close inside the first minute with an attempt that went through the legs of Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer but was kicked off the line by Boateng.

At the other end, Lukasz Piszczek cleared a Serge Gnabry shot inches from the line, while moments later Dortmund goalkeeper Roman Buerki denied Kingsley Coman.

Bayern were in control, and Kimmich grabbed what proved to be the winner two minutes before half-time when he chipped Buerki from 20 yards.

It was the Germany international's third league goal from outside the box this season.

In an attempt to turn the game around, Dortmund coach Lucien Favre brought on midfield enforcer Emre Can at the start of the second half and added the pace of Jadon Sancho on the wing.

The home side had a shout for a penalty just before the hour mark when a Haaland shot was deflected wide by the arm of Boateng, but nothing was given.

Shortly after, Haaland limped off to be replaced by 17-year-old Giovanni Reyna.

In the dying stages, Favre brought on 2014 World Cup winner Mario Goetze, who is out of contract next month and set to leave, in the vain hope of grabbing an equaliser.

With time running out, Bayern striker Robert Lewandowski hit the post.

The league's top scorer then had a strong appeal for a late penalty waved away after a push in the area by Dortmund defender Manuel Akanji.

But the roars of celebration at the end came from the Bayern bench and echoed around the near-empty stadium.

<h2>- Leverkusen crash -</h2>

Elsewhere, Bayer Leverkusen dropped to fifth after being routed 4-1 at home by Wolfsburg, whose defender Marin Pongracic claimed two goals.

It was a shock defeat at home for Peter Bosz-coached Leverkusen who had won their previous 12 games.&nbsp;

Borussia Moenchengladbach climbed over Leverkusen into fourth with a goalless draw at second-from-bottom Werder Bremen, who are two points from safety.

Eintracht Frankfurt took a point at home in a 3-3 draw with Freiburg thanks to late goals by Timothy Chandler and Japan striker Daichi Kamada.

Third-placed RB Leipzig can draw level on points with Dortmund if they win on Wednesday at home to Hertha Berlin, who have won both games so far under new head coach Bruno Labbadia.

Leipzig will be without Danish striker Yussuf Poulsen, who is set to miss the rest of the season with injury.

Joshua Kimmich described his winning goal as "brutally important" after Bayern Munich took a huge step towards an eighth straight Bundesliga title on Tuesday with a 1-0 win at Borussia Dortmund to leave them seven points clear at the top with just six games left.

Joshua Kimmich described his winning goal as "brutally important" after Bayern Munich took a huge step towards an eighth straight Bundesliga title on Tuesday with a 1-0 win at Borussia Dortmund to leave them seven points clear at the top with just six games left. Kimmich's brilliant effort came just before half-time behind closed doors at Signal Iduna Park as hosts Dortmund missed the chance to turn up the heat on the Bavarians without the backing of their huge support. "It was brutally important: I looked around to see if everyone understood how important it was," Kimmich said of his deft chip. Kimmich's captain Manuel Neuer echoed the defensive midfielder's thoughts. "That was a very important sign," said Neuer. Bayern won 4-0 when the teams met in Munich in November and they kept up their excellent recent record against second-placed Dortmund. "Now only Bayern can decide what happens," said frustrated Dortmund captain Mats Hummels. "Sometimes, games are decided by brilliant moments and that was the case today." Dortmund's star teenage striker, Erling Braut Haaland, who had scored ten goals in as many league games, failed to make an impact against Bayern's watertight defence before going off injured in the second half. Jerome Boateng and David Alaba gave him no room, while Kimmich and Leon Goretzka in midfield made sure passes intended for him rarely met their mark. The Norway forward limped off with 20 minutes left after a heavy tackle from Boateng. - Cleared chances - Things might have been different, with Haaland coming close inside the first minute with an attempt that went through the legs of Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer but was kicked off the line by Boateng. At the other end, Lukasz Piszczek cleared a Serge Gnabry shot inches from the line, while moments later Dortmund goalkeeper Roman Buerki denied Kingsley Coman. Bayern were in control, and Kimmich grabbed what proved to be the winner two minutes before half-time when he chipped Buerki from 20 yards. It was the Germany international's third league goal from outside the box this season. In an attempt to turn the game around, Dortmund coach Lucien Favre brought on midfield enforcer Emre Can at the start of the second half and added the pace of Jadon Sancho on the wing. The home side had a shout for a penalty just before the hour mark when a Haaland shot was deflected wide by the arm of Boateng, but nothing was given. Shortly after, Haaland limped off to be replaced by 17-year-old Giovanni Reyna. In the dying stages, Favre brought on 2014 World Cup winner Mario Goetze, who is out of contract next month and set to leave, in the vain hope of grabbing an equaliser. With time running out, Bayern striker Robert Lewandowski hit the post. The league's top scorer then had a strong appeal for a late penalty waved away after a push in the area by Dortmund defender Manuel Akanji. But the roars of celebration at the end came from the Bayern bench and echoed around the near-empty stadium. - Leverkusen crash - Elsewhere, Bayer Leverkusen dropped to fifth after being routed 4-1 at home by Wolfsburg, whose defender Marin Pongracic claimed two goals. It was a shock defeat at home for Peter Bosz-coached Leverkusen who had won their previous 12 games. Borussia Moenchengladbach climbed over Leverkusen into fourth with a goalless draw at second-from-bottom Werder Bremen, who are two points from safety. Eintracht Frankfurt took a point at home in a 3-3 draw with Freiburg thanks to late goals by Timothy Chandler and Japan striker Daichi Kamada. Third-placed RB Leipzig can draw level on points with Dortmund if they win on Wednesday at home to Hertha Berlin, who have won both games so far under new head coach Bruno Labbadia. Leipzig will be without Danish striker Yussuf Poulsen, who is set to miss the rest of the season with injury.

Bayern Munich down Dortmund to close on Bundesliga title

Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Inter Milan will stage a new competition called the 'European Solidarity Cup' in 2021 to raise money for medical facilities in Italy and Spain.&nbsp;

The three clubs will play each other in a round-robin group, with Inter against Bayern held in Milan, Real facing Inter in Madrid and Bayern hosting Real in Munich.&nbsp;

Proceeds from the fixtures will be donated to medical facilities in Italy and Spain, two of the world's worst-hit countries by the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

The aim is "to send out a message of solidarity and fraternity to the people of Europe", said a statement from Real Madrid.&nbsp;

Dates for the tournament have not been decided. The timing will "depend on the match calendar and when football can be played in front of fans again", the clubs said.&nbsp;

Bayern will invite 5,000 nurses, carers and doctors to the Allianz Arena for their match against Real Madrid.&nbsp;

"Nurses, carers and doctors in particular are doing an outstanding job for society at the moment," said Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge. "We, the three clubs, want to show these heroes our appreciation, respect and gratitude."&nbsp;

"The great commitment of all healthcare workers has been essential to allow us to look to the future," said Inter president Steven Zhang.&nbsp;

"With this initiative we want to thank them and celebrate their work and at the same time send a message of unity and solidarity between nations."&nbsp;

Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Inter Milan will stage a new competition called the 'European Solidarity Cup' in 2021 to raise money for medical facilities in Italy and Spain.

Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Inter Milan will stage a new competition called the 'European Solidarity Cup' in 2021 to raise money for medical facilities in Italy and Spain. The three clubs will play each other in a round-robin group, with Inter against Bayern held in Milan, Real facing Inter in Madrid and Bayern hosting Real in Munich. Proceeds from the fixtures will be donated to medical facilities in Italy and Spain, two of the world's worst-hit countries by the coronavirus pandemic. The aim is "to send out a message of solidarity and fraternity to the people of Europe", said a statement from Real Madrid. Dates for the tournament have not been decided. The timing will "depend on the match calendar and when football can be played in front of fans again", the clubs said. Bayern will invite 5,000 nurses, carers and doctors to the Allianz Arena for their match against Real Madrid. "Nurses, carers and doctors in particular are doing an outstanding job for society at the moment," said Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge. "We, the three clubs, want to show these heroes our appreciation, respect and gratitude." "The great commitment of all healthcare workers has been essential to allow us to look to the future," said Inter president Steven Zhang. "With this initiative we want to thank them and celebrate their work and at the same time send a message of unity and solidarity between nations."

Real Madrid, Bayern and Inter Milan to launch European Solidarity Cup

Thomas Mueller joked that the Bundesliga without fans feels like "old man's football, 7pm, under floodlights" after Bayern Munich brushed aside Union Berlin 2-0 behind closed doors on Sunday.

A first-half Robert Lewandowski penalty and a late Benjamin Pavard header sealed Bayern's win in front of empty terraces in Berlin.

The result leaves defending champions Bayern four points clear as the German league restarted this weekend after a two-month hiatus due to the COVID-19 virus.

However, Mueller admitted it was strange to play Union behind closed doors at their compact Alten Foersterei stadium, which is usually packed with 22,000 passionate home fans.

"It felt a bit like the atmosphere you get for old man's football, 7pm, under floodlights, but as soon as the ball started to roll, the game took our focus," said Mueller.

The Bundesliga became the first top European league to resume this weekend, using draconian hygiene guidelines, regular testing of players and insisting on games in near-empty stadiums.

Hugging, embracing and handshakes were also banned.&nbsp;

"There were a few butterflies before the restart, wondering how it would go, like before the first game of the season in August," said Mueller.

"I wasn't worried about anything going wrong, everything was explained clearly to us.

"Union Berlin, just like us, were well prepared, no handshakes before kick-off etc."

Mueller said the defending champions were just happy to win their first game after the restart to keep them on course for an eighth consecutive league title.

"We came here with the goal of getting the three points," added Mueller.

"We had a bit more security after the second goal."

Thomas Mueller joked that the Bundesliga without fans feels like "old man's football, 7pm, under floodlights" after Bayern Munich brushed aside Union Berlin 2-0 behind closed doors on Sunday.

Thomas Mueller joked that the Bundesliga without fans feels like "old man's football, 7pm, under floodlights" after Bayern Munich brushed aside Union Berlin 2-0 behind closed doors on Sunday. A first-half Robert Lewandowski penalty and a late Benjamin Pavard header sealed Bayern's win in front of empty terraces in Berlin. The result leaves defending champions Bayern four points clear as the German league restarted this weekend after a two-month hiatus due to the COVID-19 virus. However, Mueller admitted it was strange to play Union behind closed doors at their compact Alten Foersterei stadium, which is usually packed with 22,000 passionate home fans. "It felt a bit like the atmosphere you get for old man's football, 7pm, under floodlights, but as soon as the ball started to roll, the game took our focus," said Mueller. The Bundesliga became the first top European league to resume this weekend, using draconian hygiene guidelines, regular testing of players and insisting on games in near-empty stadiums. Hugging, embracing and handshakes were also banned. "There were a few butterflies before the restart, wondering how it would go, like before the first game of the season in August," said Mueller. "I wasn't worried about anything going wrong, everything was explained clearly to us. "Union Berlin, just like us, were well prepared, no handshakes before kick-off etc." Mueller said the defending champions were just happy to win their first game after the restart to keep them on course for an eighth consecutive league title. "We came here with the goal of getting the three points," added Mueller. "We had a bit more security after the second goal."

German league without fans like "old man's football", says Mueller

Bayern Munich restart their charge for an eighth straight Bundesliga title at Union Berlin on Sunday amid doubts the Bavarian giants will be able to last the distance after a two-month hiatus.

Hansi Flick's side hold a one-point lead at the top of the league heading into their trip to the German capital, which has been the scene of some impressive upsets thanks to promoted Union's form at their Alten Foersterei stadium.

Union have twice shocked the league leaders this season, beating Borussia Dortmund 3-1 in August and turning out 2-0 victors over Borussia Moenchengladbach three months later.

Now it's Bayern's turn.

Flick is unsure of his team's ability to play out a full match of professional football after having only received the go-ahead to resume full team training last week.

"We don't know if the team can hold out over 90 minutes," said Flick. "We have trained well and played three matches of 20 minutes each last Sunday.

"They were played at a very high intensity, but we don't know clearly where we stand.

"We have to just deal with the situation."

The Bundesliga is the first major league in Europe to return to action since the coronavirus brought football to a halt two months ago and has only come back with a host of strict health regulations, chief among them empty stands in what are usually passion-filled stadiums.

That means Union won't be able to count on their ferocious home support at their ground on the eastern outskirts of the German capital.

They will also be without their coach Urs Fischer after breaking the team quarantine following the death of his father-in-law.

"It's not possible to surprise Bayern with the experience their players have," said assistant coach Markus Hoffmann, who will take charge of Union for the Bayern match.

"They've already experienced everything.

"We have to concentrate on ourselves and try to implement what we can to influence the game in the best possible way."

<h2>- 'Very, very strange' -</h2>

Bayern's lead was cut to a single point by Borussia Dortmund, who on Saturday showed no ring rustiness in a 4-0 demolition of Ruhr rivals Schalke.

Young gun Erling Braut Haaland was again the headline act, scoring the first Bundesliga goal after the restart and setting up Raphael Guerreiro for the first of his brace.

In one of a series of odd scenes that peppered the first day back, Dortmund's players jogged over to applaud an empty 'Sudtribune', which would for a normal derby would be jammed with 25,000 delirous fans hailing a huge victory that keeps pressure on their title rivals.

"There was no noise. You shoot at the goal, make a top pass, score a goal, and nothing happens," said Dortmund coach Lucien Favre.

"That's very, very strange. We really missed our fans."

As well as the echoing arenas, a host of other rules have been put in place to try to stop the spread of the virus, from frequent testing to masks for players on the subs bench and a week-long quarantine for teams ahead of the restart.

However, advice to socially distance didn't stop Hertha Berlin players from celebrating their goals in a 3-0 win at Hoffenheim by hugging each other.

"The fact is that this is part of football," said Hertha coach Bruno Labbadia. "We've been tested so many times that we can allow it.

"If you can't celebrate anymore, the whole thing breaks down."

A German Football League (DFL) spokesman&nbsp;confirmed there will be no punishment, as it had only offered "guidelines" on how goals should be celebrated.

The DFL has also made no secret of the fact that several clubs are in a dire financial situation as a result of the lockdown.

If they are able to complete the nine remaining rounds of matches by June 30, clubs could receive around 300 million euros ($324 million) from television contracts.

Clubs in England, Spain and Italy, where leagues are weeks away from returning, will be watching to see how the rest of weekend goes.

Bayern Munich restart their charge for an eighth straight Bundesliga title at Union Berlin on Sunday amid doubts the Bavarian giants will be able to last the distance after a two-month hiatus.

Bayern Munich restart their charge for an eighth straight Bundesliga title at Union Berlin on Sunday amid doubts the Bavarian giants will be able to last the distance after a two-month hiatus. Hansi Flick's side hold a one-point lead at the top of the league heading into their trip to the German capital, which has been the scene of some impressive upsets thanks to promoted Union's form at their Alten Foersterei stadium. Union have twice shocked the league leaders this season, beating Borussia Dortmund 3-1 in August and turning out 2-0 victors over Borussia Moenchengladbach three months later. Now it's Bayern's turn. Flick is unsure of his team's ability to play out a full match of professional football after having only received the go-ahead to resume full team training last week. "We don't know if the team can hold out over 90 minutes," said Flick. "We have trained well and played three matches of 20 minutes each last Sunday. "They were played at a very high intensity, but we don't know clearly where we stand. "We have to just deal with the situation." The Bundesliga is the first major league in Europe to return to action since the coronavirus brought football to a halt two months ago and has only come back with a host of strict health regulations, chief among them empty stands in what are usually passion-filled stadiums. That means Union won't be able to count on their ferocious home support at their ground on the eastern outskirts of the German capital. They will also be without their coach Urs Fischer after breaking the team quarantine following the death of his father-in-law. "It's not possible to surprise Bayern with the experience their players have," said assistant coach Markus Hoffmann, who will take charge of Union for the Bayern match. "They've already experienced everything. "We have to concentrate on ourselves and try to implement what we can to influence the game in the best possible way." - 'Very, very strange' - Bayern's lead was cut to a single point by Borussia Dortmund, who on Saturday showed no ring rustiness in a 4-0 demolition of Ruhr rivals Schalke. Young gun Erling Braut Haaland was again the headline act, scoring the first Bundesliga goal after the restart and setting up Raphael Guerreiro for the first of his brace. In one of a series of odd scenes that peppered the first day back, Dortmund's players jogged over to applaud an empty 'Sudtribune', which would for a normal derby would be jammed with 25,000 delirous fans hailing a huge victory that keeps pressure on their title rivals. "There was no noise. You shoot at the goal, make a top pass, score a goal, and nothing happens," said Dortmund coach Lucien Favre. "That's very, very strange. We really missed our fans." As well as the echoing arenas, a host of other rules have been put in place to try to stop the spread of the virus, from frequent testing to masks for players on the subs bench and a week-long quarantine for teams ahead of the restart. However, advice to socially distance didn't stop Hertha Berlin players from celebrating their goals in a 3-0 win at Hoffenheim by hugging each other. "The fact is that this is part of football," said Hertha coach Bruno Labbadia. "We've been tested so many times that we can allow it. "If you can't celebrate anymore, the whole thing breaks down." A German Football League (DFL) spokesman confirmed there will be no punishment, as it had only offered "guidelines" on how goals should be celebrated. The DFL has also made no secret of the fact that several clubs are in a dire financial situation as a result of the lockdown. If they are able to complete the nine remaining rounds of matches by June 30, clubs could receive around 300 million euros ($324 million) from television contracts. Clubs in England, Spain and Italy, where leagues are weeks away from returning, will be watching to see how the rest of weekend goes.

Bayern aim to shake off cobwebs with quiet confidence in Berlin

Bayern Munich are in pole position to win an eighth straight title, but Borussia Dortmund lead the chasing pack and are spearheaded by Erling Braut Haaland as the Bundesliga comes out of its coronavirus-enforced hibernation this weekend.

AFP Sport takes a look at what is at stake on the field when the German top flight ends a two-month shutdown to play out its final nine matchdays.

<h2>- Some things stay the same... -</h2>

Teams have undergone testing and been forced into quarantine training camps because of the virus, and all matches will be played behind closed doors in the league with the highest attendances in world football.

So this will not be the Bundesliga as we know it, but something else may be just as before -- Bayern, the country's most successful club, are on track to win another title, which would be their eighth in a row.

They had put a patchy start to the season under Niko Kovac behind them before the shutdown, with Hansi Flick coming in as coach and Bayern winning 10 and drawing one of their last 11 league games.

The Bavarians are four points clear of Dortmund at the top and have been busy since their last game, with Flick signing a new contract until 2023.

Key players Thomas Mueller and Alphonso Davies followed suit by penning extensions of their own, while former striker Miroslav Klose has joined as assistant coach.

With Robert Lewandowski scoring 25 goals in 23 games, Bayern are formidable. They still have to visit Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen, although it remains to be seen how much home advantage will matter without fans.

<h2>- Watch out for Haaland -</h2>

It could still just about be a four-horse title race, with Borussia Moenchengladbach six points off the pace in fourth, but Dortmund are best-placed to stop Bayern.

Lucien Favre's side were last seen going out of the Champions League to Paris Saint-Germain, but before that were in thrilling form led by young stars Haaland and Jadon Sancho.

They won seven out of eight league games after 19-year-old Norwegian powerhouse Haaland arrived from Red Bull Salzburg. He scored nine goals in that run.

Dortmund, though, will not be able to rely on their fans who usually pack the 81,000-capacity Signal Iduna Park and their next two home games -- against Ruhr rivals Schalke on Saturday and then Bayern -- will lose much of their edge as a result.

"Having to play behind closed doors is an enormous challenge, especially for a club like BVB, which draws a lot of strength from the passion of its supporters," admitted Dortmund chief executive Hans-Joachim Watzke.

Dortmund also must still visit Leipzig, who reached the Champions League quarter-finals before the suspension but whose patchy league form after the winter break saw them fall off the pace.

In Timo Werner, they have their own fearsome striker. And in Julian Nagelsmann, 32, they have one of Europe's most exciting young coaches, so anything is possible.

Gladbach were the last team to beat Bayern in the league but would now settle for holding off fifth-placed Leverkusen to secure Champions League qualification.

There are two points between those sides, who are due to meet next weekend.

Beneath them, in the fight for one Europa League spot, Schalke, Wolfsburg, Freiburg and Hoffenheim are all within two points.

<h2>- Bremen in danger -</h2>

At the bottom Paderborn prop up the division but the plight of Werder Bremen is more striking.

The four-time champions are four points adrift of Fortuna Dusseldorf in the relegation play-off place and eight points from outright safety.

They have a game in hand, but are in danger of following the path of Hamburg and Stuttgart, two giants to have been relegated in recent seasons.

"We all know how precarious our league position is. That's motivation enough," said sporting director Frank Baumann when asked about playing home games without fans.

Elsewhere, Hertha Berlin seem far enough clear of relegation trouble but it has been a chaotic campaign in the capital.

Bruno Labbadia has become the club's fourth coach this season since the shutdown began, with Jurgen Klinsmann's short-lived time in charge ending.

Bayern Munich are in pole position to win an eighth straight title, but Borussia Dortmund lead the chasing pack and are spearheaded by Erling Braut Haaland as the Bundesliga comes out of its coronavirus-enforced hibernation this weekend.

Bayern Munich are in pole position to win an eighth straight title, but Borussia Dortmund lead the chasing pack and are spearheaded by Erling Braut Haaland as the Bundesliga comes out of its coronavirus-enforced hibernation this weekend. AFP Sport takes a look at what is at stake on the field when the German top flight ends a two-month shutdown to play out its final nine matchdays. - Some things stay the same... - Teams have undergone testing and been forced into quarantine training camps because of the virus, and all matches will be played behind closed doors in the league with the highest attendances in world football. So this will not be the Bundesliga as we know it, but something else may be just as before -- Bayern, the country's most successful club, are on track to win another title, which would be their eighth in a row. They had put a patchy start to the season under Niko Kovac behind them before the shutdown, with Hansi Flick coming in as coach and Bayern winning 10 and drawing one of their last 11 league games. The Bavarians are four points clear of Dortmund at the top and have been busy since their last game, with Flick signing a new contract until 2023. Key players Thomas Mueller and Alphonso Davies followed suit by penning extensions of their own, while former striker Miroslav Klose has joined as assistant coach. With Robert Lewandowski scoring 25 goals in 23 games, Bayern are formidable. They still have to visit Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen, although it remains to be seen how much home advantage will matter without fans. - Watch out for Haaland - It could still just about be a four-horse title race, with Borussia Moenchengladbach six points off the pace in fourth, but Dortmund are best-placed to stop Bayern. Lucien Favre's side were last seen going out of the Champions League to Paris Saint-Germain, but before that were in thrilling form led by young stars Haaland and Jadon Sancho. They won seven out of eight league games after 19-year-old Norwegian powerhouse Haaland arrived from Red Bull Salzburg. He scored nine goals in that run. Dortmund, though, will not be able to rely on their fans who usually pack the 81,000-capacity Signal Iduna Park and their next two home games -- against Ruhr rivals Schalke on Saturday and then Bayern -- will lose much of their edge as a result. "Having to play behind closed doors is an enormous challenge, especially for a club like BVB, which draws a lot of strength from the passion of its supporters," admitted Dortmund chief executive Hans-Joachim Watzke. Dortmund also must still visit Leipzig, who reached the Champions League quarter-finals before the suspension but whose patchy league form after the winter break saw them fall off the pace. In Timo Werner, they have their own fearsome striker. And in Julian Nagelsmann, 32, they have one of Europe's most exciting young coaches, so anything is possible. Gladbach were the last team to beat Bayern in the league but would now settle for holding off fifth-placed Leverkusen to secure Champions League qualification. There are two points between those sides, who are due to meet next weekend. Beneath them, in the fight for one Europa League spot, Schalke, Wolfsburg, Freiburg and Hoffenheim are all within two points. - Bremen in danger - At the bottom Paderborn prop up the division but the plight of Werder Bremen is more striking. The four-time champions are four points adrift of Fortuna Dusseldorf in the relegation play-off place and eight points from outright safety. They have a game in hand, but are in danger of following the path of Hamburg and Stuttgart, two giants to have been relegated in recent seasons. "We all know how precarious our league position is. That's motivation enough," said sporting director Frank Baumann when asked about playing home games without fans. Elsewhere, Hertha Berlin seem far enough clear of relegation trouble but it has been a chaotic campaign in the capital. Bruno Labbadia has become the club's fourth coach this season since the shutdown began, with Jurgen Klinsmann's short-lived time in charge ending.

The Bundesliga is back, so can Dortmund catch Bayern?

David Alaba says Bayern Munich are "hungry" and enjoying their return to full-team training ahead of the restart of the Bundesliga this weekend behind closed doors.

The German top flight resumes on Saturday after the season was suspended in mid-March to help slow the spread of the coronavirus.

It will be the first major European league to resume after the outbreak of the pandemic, which has so far claimed around 7,500 lives in Germany.

Bayern coach Hansi Flick has been putting his players through their paces in training sessions at the Allianz Arena.

Bayern, who were four points clear of second-placed Borussia Dortmund in their bid for an eighth straight Bundesliga title when football was halted, restart their season at Union Berlin on Sunday.

"It was really very, very nice to be back on the pitch, training as a whole team," said Alaba.

"You could tell how much we have all looked forward to this moment.

"You could feel that in training, everyone was hungry -- and looking forward to the first game."

<h2>- 'Extreme challenge' -</h2>

Chancellor Angela Merkel approved the league's plan to restart with regular testing of players and strict hygiene measures in place.

Bundesliga CEO Christian Seifert has warned clubs they are "on probation" because of fears an outbreak of the virus in the competition could again see the season suspended.

The clubs are now holding practice sessions featuring the whole squad after weeks of training in small groups.

Dortmund host arch rivals Schalke on Saturday in the first derby without spectators in the rivalry's 95-year history.

Dortmund played the first of two training matches at Signal Iduna Park without injured midfielders Axel Witsel and Emre Can.

"We are used to playing at home in front of 82,000," Dortmund coach Lucien Favre told German daily Bild.

"To prepare mentally now to play without being cheered and without being pushed by the atmosphere is an extreme challenge."

<h2>- 'Stick to the rules' -</h2>

RB Leipzig coach Julian Nagelsmann is hoping his side can treat the remainder of the campaign as a mini-tournament to help them rekindle their title challenge.

The third-placed outfit, five points behind Bayern, host mid-table Freiburg on Saturday.

"The whole situation is like before a tournament: we all had a short break, then a relaxed phase and now an intense preparation," Nagelsmann told magazine Kicker.

"When Bayern are on top form, they usually decide the league title for themselves, especially with this lead.

"We're going to try to win this nine-game tournament -- with the theoretical possibility of finishing first."

Nagelsmann said the onus is on the players to obey the hygiene regulations.

"You don't have to have studied nuclear physics to understand that it is advisable to stick to the rules," he said.

"After all, if there are no more matches, the salaries will be significantly lower than before."

Clubs must finish the season by June 30 in order to collect around 300 million euros ($324 million) in television money.

David Alaba says Bayern Munich are "hungry" and enjoying their return to full-team training ahead of the restart of the Bundesliga this weekend behind closed doors.

David Alaba says Bayern Munich are "hungry" and enjoying their return to full-team training ahead of the restart of the Bundesliga this weekend behind closed doors. The German top flight resumes on Saturday after the season was suspended in mid-March to help slow the spread of the coronavirus. It will be the first major European league to resume after the outbreak of the pandemic, which has so far claimed around 7,500 lives in Germany. Bayern coach Hansi Flick has been putting his players through their paces in training sessions at the Allianz Arena. Bayern, who were four points clear of second-placed Borussia Dortmund in their bid for an eighth straight Bundesliga title when football was halted, restart their season at Union Berlin on Sunday. "It was really very, very nice to be back on the pitch, training as a whole team," said Alaba. "You could tell how much we have all looked forward to this moment. "You could feel that in training, everyone was hungry -- and looking forward to the first game." - 'Extreme challenge' - Chancellor Angela Merkel approved the league's plan to restart with regular testing of players and strict hygiene measures in place. Bundesliga CEO Christian Seifert has warned clubs they are "on probation" because of fears an outbreak of the virus in the competition could again see the season suspended. The clubs are now holding practice sessions featuring the whole squad after weeks of training in small groups. Dortmund host arch rivals Schalke on Saturday in the first derby without spectators in the rivalry's 95-year history. Dortmund played the first of two training matches at Signal Iduna Park without injured midfielders Axel Witsel and Emre Can. "We are used to playing at home in front of 82,000," Dortmund coach Lucien Favre told German daily Bild. "To prepare mentally now to play without being cheered and without being pushed by the atmosphere is an extreme challenge." - 'Stick to the rules' - RB Leipzig coach Julian Nagelsmann is hoping his side can treat the remainder of the campaign as a mini-tournament to help them rekindle their title challenge. The third-placed outfit, five points behind Bayern, host mid-table Freiburg on Saturday. "The whole situation is like before a tournament: we all had a short break, then a relaxed phase and now an intense preparation," Nagelsmann told magazine Kicker. "When Bayern are on top form, they usually decide the league title for themselves, especially with this lead. "We're going to try to win this nine-game tournament -- with the theoretical possibility of finishing first." Nagelsmann said the onus is on the players to obey the hygiene regulations. "You don't have to have studied nuclear physics to understand that it is advisable to stick to the rules," he said. "After all, if there are no more matches, the salaries will be significantly lower than before." Clubs must finish the season by June 30 in order to collect around 300 million euros ($324 million) in television money.

'Hungry' Bayern delighted to be back in training, says Alaba

Philippe Coutinho, who is currently on a loan in Bayern Munich has been for sale from the Catalonia side. Many Premier League teams have tried to approach the club to buy the Brazilian Playmaker.&nbsp;

But Bayern's Thiago has urged the Brazilian to permanent his stay in the German club. He said: "I know him well. He’s very good. I’ve seen him play since he was 12 years old.

"I played futsal against him in Brazil and he loved it. He doesn’t think he lacks anything.

"I love playing with high-level footballers and he is a phenomenon. He is a spectacular guy, super hard-working, with an unbeatable technique and incredible definition.

"Players go through good and not so good moments and he is giving us a lot. We hope to have him next year too."

Coutinho was bought in January 2018 on a record £142 million deal to Barcelona. But he struggled to find his form and went out for a loan to Bayern Munich, where he scored eight goals in 15 matches.&nbsp;

German giants are not expected to activate £100 million to purchase the 27-year-old due to being financially hit due to the coronavirus pandemic. This has given Chelsea and New Castle a chance to have their say in the transfer.

Philippe Coutinho, who is currently on a loan in Bayern Munich has been for sale from the Catalonia side. Many Premier League teams have tried to approach the club to buy the Brazilian Playmaker.

Philippe Coutinho, who is currently on a loan in Bayern Munich has been for sale from the Catalonia side. Many Premier League teams have tried to approach the club to buy the Brazilian Playmaker. But Bayern's Thiago has urged the Brazilian to permanent his stay in the German club. He said: "I know him well. He’s very good. I’ve seen him play since he was 12 years old. "I played futsal against him in Brazil and he loved it. He doesn’t think he lacks anything. "I love playing with high-level footballers and he is a phenomenon. He is a spectacular guy, super hard-working, with an unbeatable technique and incredible definition. "Players go through good and not so good moments and he is giving us a lot. We hope to have him next year too." Coutinho was bought in January 2018 on a record £142 million deal to Barcelona. But he struggled to find his form and went out for a loan to Bayern Munich, where he scored eight goals in 15 matches. German giants are not expected to activate £100 million to purchase the 27-year-old due to being financially hit due to the coronavirus pandemic. This has given Chelsea and New Castle a chance to have their say in the transfer.

Philippe Coutinho might snub English teams to stay in Bundesliga

Germany and Bayern Munich defender Niklas Suele admits having mixed feelings about the possible return of German league football next month amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Next Thursday, the German Football League (DFL) plans to meet via video conference with the 36 clubs in the first two leagues to discuss whether matches can resume in early May.

As public events in Germany are banned until August 31, football matches before that date could only be played in near-empty stadiums with fans locked out.

If the German authorities give the green light, the Bundesliga could be the first top European league to resume since German league matches were halted on March 13.

Most of the 18 top flight clubs in Germany returned to training last week, albeit with social distancing being observed even on the pitch.

The DFL is determined to finish the season by June 30 to ensure its clubs do not lose out on crucial TV rights revenue, but Suele is sceptical.

"There are many more important things than football at the moment," the 24-year-old told AFP subsidiary SID.

"Of course I want to get fit and play again, but the important thing is that my family is well, that everyone is healthy.

"As football professionals, we are blessed when we see how many companies have to close or how hard some families are hit. That's bad.

"Whether we play sooner or later is irrelevant."

However, Suele admits he would be "very happy if we could start again. Maybe it would also be a little distraction for many fans".

Suele has returned to training after a serious knee injury last October, and acknowledges that his comeback will probably be in front of empty terraces.

"Of course, during rehab I imagined how nice it would be to run out at the sold-out Allianz Arena (Bayern's home ground) again," he said.

"Unfortunately, that's going to be a thing of the past, but I'd still be happy to be able to play with my team again."

In Germany, games played behind locked doors are called "ghost games" and Suele insists they are a better option than no matches at all.

"From my point of view, there's no player anyway who'd rather not play at all than have ghost games," he added.

Just over 3,500 people have so far died due to the coronavirus in Germany.

Germany and Bayern Munich defender Niklas Suele admits having mixed feelings about the possible return of German league football next month amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Germany and Bayern Munich defender Niklas Suele admits having mixed feelings about the possible return of German league football next month amid the coronavirus pandemic. Next Thursday, the German Football League (DFL) plans to meet via video conference with the 36 clubs in the first two leagues to discuss whether matches can resume in early May. As public events in Germany are banned until August 31, football matches before that date could only be played in near-empty stadiums with fans locked out. If the German authorities give the green light, the Bundesliga could be the first top European league to resume since German league matches were halted on March 13. Most of the 18 top flight clubs in Germany returned to training last week, albeit with social distancing being observed even on the pitch. The DFL is determined to finish the season by June 30 to ensure its clubs do not lose out on crucial TV rights revenue, but Suele is sceptical. "There are many more important things than football at the moment," the 24-year-old told AFP subsidiary SID. "Of course I want to get fit and play again, but the important thing is that my family is well, that everyone is healthy. "As football professionals, we are blessed when we see how many companies have to close or how hard some families are hit. That's bad. "Whether we play sooner or later is irrelevant." However, Suele admits he would be "very happy if we could start again. Maybe it would also be a little distraction for many fans". Suele has returned to training after a serious knee injury last October, and acknowledges that his comeback will probably be in front of empty terraces. "Of course, during rehab I imagined how nice it would be to run out at the sold-out Allianz Arena (Bayern's home ground) again," he said. "Unfortunately, that's going to be a thing of the past, but I'd still be happy to be able to play with my team again." In Germany, games played behind locked doors are called "ghost games" and Suele insists they are a better option than no matches at all. "From my point of view, there's no player anyway who'd rather not play at all than have ghost games," he added. Just over 3,500 people have so far died due to the coronavirus in Germany.

Bayern star Suele wary of Bundesliga returning too soon

Bayern Munich said Sunday that players will return to training on Monday for the first time since the Bundesliga was suspended due to the coronavirus.

Bayern led the table by four points when the season was halted on March 13.

"The Bayern Munich first team will return to training in small groups from Monday, April 6," said a statement from the club.

"This will&nbsp;be done in coordination with government policy and the relevant authorities.&nbsp;

"It goes without saying that all hygiene regulations will be strictly observed."

German football league officials had already advised a break in training until Sunday at the earliest.

Bayern said that training will be held in private with no members of the public allowed.

"In order to further slow the spread of the coronavirus, Bayern asks fans to continue to follow the instructions of the authorities and therefore please do not come to the Bayern training ground," added the statement.

More than 1,300 people have died in Germany from the coronavirus.

Bayern Munich said Sunday that players will return to training on Monday for the first time since the Bundesliga was suspended due to the coronavirus. Bayern led the table by four points when the season was halted on March 13.

Bayern Munich said Sunday that players will return to training on Monday for the first time since the Bundesliga was suspended due to the coronavirus. Bayern led the table by four points when the season was halted on March 13. "The Bayern Munich first team will return to training in small groups from Monday, April 6," said a statement from the club. "This will be done in coordination with government policy and the relevant authorities. "It goes without saying that all hygiene regulations will be strictly observed." German football league officials had already advised a break in training until Sunday at the earliest. Bayern said that training will be held in private with no members of the public allowed. "In order to further slow the spread of the coronavirus, Bayern asks fans to continue to follow the instructions of the authorities and therefore please do not come to the Bayern training ground," added the statement. More than 1,300 people have died in Germany from the coronavirus.

Bayern Munich to resume training on Monday

Bayern Munich chief Herbert Hainer is expecting a significant decrease in transfer fees of players due to the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

Despite a common $100 million transfer fees during the windows these years, Munich has been very modest with their spending. Only last year they broke their transfer record by buying Lucas Hernandez for $90 million.&nbsp;

Neymar is currently the world's most expensive player after his $264 million transfer to Paris Saint Germain in August 2017.&nbsp;

Teams across Europe have cut short their wages to ease the situation for dried up revenues due to the halt in global football due to coronavirus. Bayern Munich players have given up 20 per cent of their wages.&nbsp;

Hainer in an interview to a local german magazine said: "As I said, although serious predictions are difficult to make, it's obvious there'll be changes. I agree with Uli Hoeness' assumption that transfer fees will decrease. That's just logical.

"When income decreases, there's less money in circulation. And given the economic impact of the coronavirus crisis on people's everyday lives, outrageous sums in the millions are even less justifiable than they already were.

"My hope is that more common sense will be applied here as well. I have to take my hat off to Hasan Salihamidzic and our sporting leadership. They're handling the coronavirus situation very well."

Talking about the financial crisis the clubs are facing due to standstill, Bayern president said: &nbsp;"Of course, the situation is very tense. It's about the existence of individual clubs. And even FC Bayern faces a major financial challenge – that's no secret."

"But our club is in an excellent position. We work day after day to ensure that FC Bayern can navigate through this phase without any major damage.

"Despite this immense task, we're looking to the future with confidence."

Bayern Munich chief Herbert Hainer is expecting a significant decrease in transfer fees of players due to the coronavirus pandemic. Despite a common $100 million transfer fees during the windows these years, Munich has been very modest with their spending.

Bayern Munich chief Herbert Hainer is expecting a significant decrease in transfer fees of players due to the coronavirus pandemic. Despite a common $100 million transfer fees during the windows these years, Munich has been very modest with their spending. Only last year they broke their transfer record by buying Lucas Hernandez for $90 million. Neymar is currently the world's most expensive player after his $264 million transfer to Paris Saint Germain in August 2017. Teams across Europe have cut short their wages to ease the situation for dried up revenues due to the halt in global football due to coronavirus. Bayern Munich players have given up 20 per cent of their wages. Hainer in an interview to a local german magazine said: "As I said, although serious predictions are difficult to make, it's obvious there'll be changes. I agree with Uli Hoeness' assumption that transfer fees will decrease. That's just logical. "When income decreases, there's less money in circulation. And given the economic impact of the coronavirus crisis on people's everyday lives, outrageous sums in the millions are even less justifiable than they already were. "My hope is that more common sense will be applied here as well. I have to take my hat off to Hasan Salihamidzic and our sporting leadership. They're handling the coronavirus situation very well." Talking about the financial crisis the clubs are facing due to standstill, Bayern president said: "Of course, the situation is very tense. It's about the existence of individual clubs. And even FC Bayern faces a major financial challenge – that's no secret." "But our club is in an excellent position. We work day after day to ensure that FC Bayern can navigate through this phase without any major damage. "Despite this immense task, we're looking to the future with confidence."

'Transfer fees will decrease due to COVID-19': Bayern Munich president Herbert Hainer

Bayern Munich continues their dominating streak in London after beating Chelsea 3-0 in the first leg of the Round of 16 in the UEFA Champions League at Stamford Bridge.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-frank-lampard-prepares-his-team-for-gruesome-clash-with-bayern-munich-282638">Champions League: Frank Lampard prepares his team for gruesome clash with Bayern Munich</a>

A brace from Serge Gnabry and a goal from Robert Lewandowski ensured that Bayern Munich destroyed Chelsea handing a massive advantage to the German team.&nbsp;

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Chelsea boss Frank Lampard was disappointed with the scoreline and he said: “It was a harsh lesson, a reality check for the players of the levels we want to get to,”.&nbsp;

He went on to add: "That's football at this level, the levels of Bayern were fantastic. It was a harsh lesson for the players. It's the reality of the Champions League,"

Lampard blamed this humiliation on their failure to sign players last month: “There’s no point in looking back on anything other than the fact of being real about where we are...we’re now fighting to come in the top four this year because we want to then improve in the summer. We also have to go to Munich and play with a lot of pride in a few weeks. Today was just a clear show that there’s a lot of work to be done and I felt that when I took the job.”

Jorginho will be missing his second leg after a yellow card for arguing with the referee and Marco Alonso's red card left Chelsea manager Lampard fuming. He said: "I learned about the players. We have to show character. They need to use it to positive effect,".&nbsp;

Chelsea has now lost eight matches at their home ground (Stamford Bridge) in all competitions this season. This is the most in a single campaign since 1985-86.

Bayern Munich will host Chelsea in the second leg of the Round of 16 clash on March 19. (Aggregate 3-0) 
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Bayern Munich continues their dominating streak in London after beating Chelsea 3-0 in the first leg of the Round of 16 in the UEFA Champions League at Stamford Bridge.

Bayern Munich continues their dominating streak in London after beating Chelsea 3-0 in the first leg of the Round of 16 in the UEFA Champions League at Stamford Bridge. Also read: Champions League: Frank Lampard prepares his team for gruesome clash with Bayern Munich A brace from Serge Gnabry and a goal from Robert Lewandowski ensured that Bayern Munich destroyed Chelsea handing a massive advantage to the German team. 🔴💪 pic.twitter.com/ryftjg0wPM — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) February 25, 2020 × Chelsea boss Frank Lampard was disappointed with the scoreline and he said: “It was a harsh lesson, a reality check for the players of the levels we want to get to,”. He went on to add: "That's football at this level, the levels of Bayern were fantastic. It was a harsh lesson for the players. It's the reality of the Champions League," Lampard blamed this humiliation on their failure to sign players last month: “There’s no point in looking back on anything other than the fact of being real about where we are...we’re now fighting to come in the top four this year because we want to then improve in the summer. We also have to go to Munich and play with a lot of pride in a few weeks. Today was just a clear show that there’s a lot of work to be done and I felt that when I took the job.” Jorginho will be missing his second leg after a yellow card for arguing with the referee and Marco Alonso's red card left Chelsea manager Lampard fuming. He said: "I learned about the players. We have to show character. They need to use it to positive effect,". Chelsea has now lost eight matches at their home ground (Stamford Bridge) in all competitions this season. This is the most in a single campaign since 1985-86. Bayern Munich will host Chelsea in the second leg of the Round of 16 clash on March 19. (Aggregate 3-0)

Champions League: Bayern Munich thrash Chelsea in first leg of Round of 16

&nbsp;

Chelsea manager Frank Lampard said that his team is preparing for a gruesome fixture against Bayern Munich for the round of 16 clash in Champions League.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-simeones-atletico-stun-mighty-liverpool-in-1st-leg-of-round-of-16-281473">Champions League: Simeone's Atletico stun mighty Liverpool in 1st leg of round of 16</a>

The match will be played in Stamford Bridge, London. Their rivals Tottenham Hotspurs faced heavy defeat by the hands of German heavyweight in the group stage. Spurs lost 7-2 at home and 3-1 away.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jose-mourinho-bans-spurs-players-from-watching-bayern-thrashing-267565">Jose Mourinho bans Spurs players from watching Bayern thrashing</a>

Lampard said "definitively," if they (Chelsea) learnt lessons from their derby club's defeat by the hands of Bayern which is also the biggest margin of defeat for an English team at home in any European competition. Chelsea has beaten Bayern Munich in the 2012 Champions League finals on penalties.&nbsp;

Lampard said: "It is a club that overcomes difficulties because of the strength, their structure. I have huge respect for them (Bayern). Every year they can win the Champions League but our job is to try and stop them."

"I understand it if people call us underdogs because Bayern are so strong. Maybe we do not have their experience but we are here to turn it around. Those are the best stories in sport," he added.&nbsp;

Bayern Munich topped their group after winning all six games and are table-toppers in Bundesliga. They will be eyeing a record-extending eight Bundesliga win.&nbsp;

Chelsea were second in their group with three wins, two draws and one loss and are currently fourth in the Premier League.&nbsp;

Chelsea will be missing their key player N'Golo Kante, who was forced out due to injury and Oliver Giroud could make it to the playing XI after a good Saturday clash against Spurs.&nbsp;

(inputs from Reuters)

Chelsea manager Frank Lampard said that his team is preparing for a gruesome fixture against Bayern Munich for the round of 16 clash in Champions League. Also read: Champions League: Simeone's Atletico stun mighty Liverpool in 1st leg of round of 16 The match will be played in Stamford Bridge, London.

Chelsea manager Frank Lampard said that his team is preparing for a gruesome fixture against Bayern Munich for the round of 16 clash in Champions League. Also read: Champions League: Simeone's Atletico stun mighty Liverpool in 1st leg of round of 16 The match will be played in Stamford Bridge, London. Their rivals Tottenham Hotspurs faced heavy defeat by the hands of German heavyweight in the group stage. Spurs lost 7-2 at home and 3-1 away. Also read: Jose Mourinho bans Spurs players from watching Bayern thrashing Lampard said "definitively," if they (Chelsea) learnt lessons from their derby club's defeat by the hands of Bayern which is also the biggest margin of defeat for an English team at home in any European competition. Chelsea has beaten Bayern Munich in the 2012 Champions League finals on penalties. Lampard said: "It is a club that overcomes difficulties because of the strength, their structure. I have huge respect for them (Bayern). Every year they can win the Champions League but our job is to try and stop them." "I understand it if people call us underdogs because Bayern are so strong. Maybe we do not have their experience but we are here to turn it around. Those are the best stories in sport," he added. Bayern Munich topped their group after winning all six games and are table-toppers in Bundesliga. They will be eyeing a record-extending eight Bundesliga win. Chelsea were second in their group with three wins, two draws and one loss and are currently fourth in the Premier League. Chelsea will be missing their key player N'Golo Kante, who was forced out due to injury and Oliver Giroud could make it to the playing XI after a good Saturday clash against Spurs. (inputs from Reuters)

Champions League: Frank Lampard prepares his team for gruesome clash with Bayern Munich

RB Leipzig eased past struggling Werder Bremen 3-0 on Saturday to reclaim top spot in the Bundesliga, two points ahead of champions Bayern Munich. Having failed to win in their last four games in all competitions, Leipzig were desperate to bounce back on their home ground and Lukas Klostermann's 18th-minute goal quickly put them in the driving seat.

RB Leipzig eased past struggling Werder Bremen 3-0 on Saturday to reclaim top spot in the Bundesliga, two points ahead of champions Bayern Munich. Having failed to win in their last four games in all competitions, Leipzig were desperate to bounce back on their home ground and Lukas Klostermann's 18th-minute goal quickly put them in the driving seat. Patrik Schick, who had set up Klostermann, then grabbed one himself, heading in his sixth league goal in the 39th minute before Nordi Mukiele latched on to a deep through ball to fire in their third goal a minute after the restart. [ Leipzig's French defender Nordi Mukiele (C) scores the 3-0 goal past Bremen's Czech goalkeeper Jiri Pavlenka (R) during the German first division Bundesliga football match (Courtesy: AFP) ] Leipzig, who face Tottenham Hotspur in the Champions League last-16 on Wednesday, move up to 45 points, with Bayern, in action against Cologne on Sunday, on 43. Borussia Dortmund, winners 4-0 over Eintracht Frankfurt on Friday, are in third place on 42. "We played a good game and fully deserved to win," Czech international Schick told reporters. "I am happy for my goal but more importantly it is a big boost ahead of Spurs." Lars Stindl scored twice as Borussia Moenchengladbach stormed to a 4-1 win at Fortuna Duesseldorf - their first away win since November - to join Dortmund on 42 points. Also Read: Claudio Pizarro joins Werder Bremen for a fourth and final stint Former champions Werder, who have now lost eight of their last nine league games, are stuck in 17th place, a point above last-placed Paderborn. Bayer Leverkusen kept their Champions League hopes intact when Karim Bellarabi struck in stoppage time to secure a hard-fought 3-2 victory at Union Berlin to keep them within striking distance of a top-four spot, in fifth place on 40. The game was repeatedly interrupted after fans lit flares and smoke bombs in the stands. Hertha Berlin made a winning start to life after Juergen Klinsman, beating Paderborn 2-1 with a goal from Dedryck Boyata and an own goal from Jamilu Collins, in their first game since their former coach's surprise departure this week. Klinsmann, a former Germany and U.S. national team coach, quit after only 76 days in charge, complaining about a lack of trust and support. Hertha's win lifted them further away from the relegation zone and into 13th place. Dutchman Wout Weghorst scored a hat-trick in VfL Wolfsburg's 3-2 victory over Hoffenheim, who twice come back from a goal down only to lose.

Bundesliga: Leipzig back on top with 3-0 win over strugglers Werder

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-bayern-seal-last-16-berth-as-lewandowski-strikes-again-260439">Bayern Munich scored</a> three goals in the opening 26 minutes to defeat Mainz 05 3-1 away on Saturday and go a point clear at the top of the Bundesliga with their sixth straight win. Top scorer Robert Lewandowski headed in his 22nd league goal in the eighth minute and Thomas Mueller and Thiago Alcantara added two more to lift the Bavarians to 42 points, one ahead of RB Leipzig who drew 2-2 at home to Borussia Moenchengladbach.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bayern-demolish-schalke-lewandowski-strikes-early-276615">Bayern's fast start</a> was enough to kill off the game and Mainz, who cut the deficit on the stroke of halftime through Jeremiah St Juste, rarely threatened although Leandro Barreiro hit the post. The Bavarians also set a club record with 58 goals in their 20 league games in a boost for interim coach Hansi Flick, whose future at the club is still unclear.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-dortmund-loose-out-on-two-goal-lead-to-draw-3-3-with-rb-leipzig-268861">Football: Dortmund loose out on two-goal lead to draw 3-3 with RB Leipzig</a>

<img alt=" Benjamin Pavard" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="045e20c8-7192-46b9-b9a4-e39b48d5cf8e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202020-02-02T124532.290.jpg" /> 
[&nbsp;Bayern Munich's Benjamin Pavard in action (Courtesy: Reuters) ]

"I was fascinated by our opening 30 minutes," Flick said. "After that, we did too little. We took the speed and pace out of our game. "We defended well and brought the three points home," he said as Bayern prepare to face Leipzig next week. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bundesliga-hoffenheim-stun-borussia-dortmund-after-late-strike-269439">Borussia Dortmund</a> enjoyed an even more dominant afternoon, demolishing Union Berlin 5-0 with two goals from Norwegian sensation Erling Haaland, the first player in Bundesliga history to score seven goals in his first three matches.

Leipzig had to come from two goals behind to salvage a point against Gladbach thanks to Christopher Nkunku's 89th-minute equaliser. Gladbach, down to 10 men on the hour, had taken a 2-0 lead in the first half but a Patrik Schick goal in the 50th and Nkunku's shot rescued a point for the hosts. 
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Bayern Munich scored three goals in the opening 26 minutes to defeat Mainz 05 3-1 away on Saturday and go a point clear at the top of the Bundesliga with their sixth straight win.

Bayern Munich scored three goals in the opening 26 minutes to defeat Mainz 05 3-1 away on Saturday and go a point clear at the top of the Bundesliga with their sixth straight win. Top scorer Robert Lewandowski headed in his 22nd league goal in the eighth minute and Thomas Mueller and Thiago Alcantara added two more to lift the Bavarians to 42 points, one ahead of RB Leipzig who drew 2-2 at home to Borussia Moenchengladbach. Bayern's fast start was enough to kill off the game and Mainz, who cut the deficit on the stroke of halftime through Jeremiah St Juste, rarely threatened although Leandro Barreiro hit the post. The Bavarians also set a club record with 58 goals in their 20 league games in a boost for interim coach Hansi Flick, whose future at the club is still unclear. Also Read: Football: Dortmund loose out on two-goal lead to draw 3-3 with RB Leipzig [ Bayern Munich's Benjamin Pavard in action (Courtesy: Reuters) ] "I was fascinated by our opening 30 minutes," Flick said. "After that, we did too little. We took the speed and pace out of our game. "We defended well and brought the three points home," he said as Bayern prepare to face Leipzig next week. Borussia Dortmund enjoyed an even more dominant afternoon, demolishing Union Berlin 5-0 with two goals from Norwegian sensation Erling Haaland, the first player in Bundesliga history to score seven goals in his first three matches. Leipzig had to come from two goals behind to salvage a point against Gladbach thanks to Christopher Nkunku's 89th-minute equaliser. Gladbach, down to 10 men on the hour, had taken a 2-0 lead in the first half but a Patrik Schick goal in the 50th and Nkunku's shot rescued a point for the hosts.

Dortmund's Haaland scores; Bayern beat Mainz to reach the top

18-year-old Dutchman Joshua Zirkzee&nbsp;came on in the 90th minute before breaking a 1-1 deadlock, becoming the youngest player to score a goal this Bundesliga season.

Bayern's Serge Gnabry added another in the final minute of injury time to put the result beyond doubt, crushing the hopes of a dogged and determined home side.

It was business as usual early for Bayern, with Philippe Coutinho's chip over goalkeeper Mark Flekken cleared off the line after just two minutes. &nbsp;

In the 16th minute, 19-year-old Canadian Alphonso Davies put in a superb cross from the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-bayern-forward-coman-out-until-january-with-knee-injury-268037">left-wing</a>, with Robert Lewandowski on the spot to open the scoring.&nbsp;&nbsp;

It was Lewandowski's 19th league goal of the season –&nbsp;and the sixth time he opened the scoring for Munich this campaign.

The goal seemed to calm Bayern, with the Bavarians content to dominate possession without making too many incursions into the Freiburg end.

After the half-time break, Freiburg showed the form that has taken them to sixth in the table, catching Bayern on the counter to create several half chances.

Vincenzo Grifo equalised in the 59th minute, nailing Janik Haberer's cross to give <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-bayern-brush-aside-mourinhos-spurs-to-claim-perfect-six-267846">Bayern</a> keeper Manuel Neuer no chance.

Freiburg had several chances to take the lead as the clock ran down, with Bayern's players visibly shaken by the home team's relentless pressing.

The win sees Bayern go into third place, four points behind <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-dortmund-loose-out-on-two-goal-lead-to-draw-3-3-with-rb-leipzig-268861">Leipzig</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-manchester-united-thrash-az-basaksehir-dump-moenchengladbach-out-of-europa-league-268032">Borussia Moenchengladbach</a>.

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⏱️ 90: Subs on Joshua Zirkzee 
⏱️ 90+2: Joshua Zirkzee makes it 2-1 
 
🤷‍♂️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SCFFCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SCFFCB</a> <a href="https://t.co/pIqsxRrddN">pic.twitter.com/pIqsxRrddN</a>
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&nbsp;

Moenchengladbach overcame their recent poor form to defeat relegation favourites Paderborn 2-0 through a goal from Alassane Plea and a penalty from Lars Stindl.

Gladbach scored immediately after the break, with Plea's goal coming just 13 seconds into the second half to make it Gladbach's best start to the season in 42 years.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wolfsburg left it late to equalise at home to Schalke, Kevin Mbabu scoring in the 82nd minute to cancel out a 51st-minute strike from Ozan Kabak.

In Frankfurt, Cologne continued their excellent recent run of form, beating Eintracht 4-2 through three second-half goals.

After starting the season in terrible form, Cologne have now claimed the same amount of points in their past four games (seven) as they did in the first 12 matchdays.

Earlier, Jurgen Klinsmann claimed a second straight 1-0 win in charge of Hertha Berlin as Karim Rekik's second-half goal was enough to beat Bayern Leverkusen.

The three points move Hertha four points away from the relegation zone.

Peter Bosz's side are seventh after a second straight defeat.

Klinsmann, appointed at the end of November, made one change from Saturday's victory over Freiburg with Norway midfielder Per Skjelbred starting instead of forward Vedad Ibisevic.

Bosz gave Germany's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/netherlands-shock-stunned-germany-in-4-2-comeback-win-248233">Jonathan Tah</a> a first start since November after the defender missed two games due to suspension.

Hosts Leverkusen dominated possession throughout much of the game, but Hertha had the best of the scoring chances, frequently breaking on the counter.

Hertha's Javairo Dilrosun had the best chance of the first half, with his left-foot shot in the 20th minute agonisingly close to goal.

For the home side, Moussa Diaby looked the most dangerous down the right-wing.

The visitors got on the scoreboard in the 64th minute after defender Rekik made the most of a second shot at goal after his first effort was kept out by goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky.

18-year-old Dutchman Joshua Zirkzee came on in the 90th minute before breaking a 1-1 deadlock, becoming the youngest player to score a goal this Bundesliga season.

18-year-old Dutchman Joshua Zirkzee came on in the 90th minute before breaking a 1-1 deadlock, becoming the youngest player to score a goal this Bundesliga season. Bayern's Serge Gnabry added another in the final minute of injury time to put the result beyond doubt, crushing the hopes of a dogged and determined home side. It was business as usual early for Bayern, with Philippe Coutinho's chip over goalkeeper Mark Flekken cleared off the line after just two minutes. In the 16th minute, 19-year-old Canadian Alphonso Davies put in a superb cross from the left-wing, with Robert Lewandowski on the spot to open the scoring. It was Lewandowski's 19th league goal of the season – and the sixth time he opened the scoring for Munich this campaign. The goal seemed to calm Bayern, with the Bavarians content to dominate possession without making too many incursions into the Freiburg end. After the half-time break, Freiburg showed the form that has taken them to sixth in the table, catching Bayern on the counter to create several half chances. Vincenzo Grifo equalised in the 59th minute, nailing Janik Haberer's cross to give Bayern keeper Manuel Neuer no chance. Freiburg had several chances to take the lead as the clock ran down, with Bayern's players visibly shaken by the home team's relentless pressing. The win sees Bayern go into third place, four points behind Leipzig and Borussia Moenchengladbach. ⏱️ 90: Subs on Joshua Zirkzee ⏱️ 90+2: Joshua Zirkzee makes it 2-1 🤷‍♂️#SCFFCB pic.twitter.com/pIqsxRrddN — FC Bayern English (@FCBayernEN) December 18, 2019 × Moenchengladbach overcame their recent poor form to defeat relegation favourites Paderborn 2-0 through a goal from Alassane Plea and a penalty from Lars Stindl. Gladbach scored immediately after the break, with Plea's goal coming just 13 seconds into the second half to make it Gladbach's best start to the season in 42 years. Wolfsburg left it late to equalise at home to Schalke, Kevin Mbabu scoring in the 82nd minute to cancel out a 51st-minute strike from Ozan Kabak. In Frankfurt, Cologne continued their excellent recent run of form, beating Eintracht 4-2 through three second-half goals. After starting the season in terrible form, Cologne have now claimed the same amount of points in their past four games (seven) as they did in the first 12 matchdays. Earlier, Jurgen Klinsmann claimed a second straight 1-0 win in charge of Hertha Berlin as Karim Rekik's second-half goal was enough to beat Bayern Leverkusen. The three points move Hertha four points away from the relegation zone. Peter Bosz's side are seventh after a second straight defeat. Klinsmann, appointed at the end of November, made one change from Saturday's victory over Freiburg with Norway midfielder Per Skjelbred starting instead of forward Vedad Ibisevic. Bosz gave Germany's Jonathan Tah a first start since November after the defender missed two games due to suspension. Hosts Leverkusen dominated possession throughout much of the game, but Hertha had the best of the scoring chances, frequently breaking on the counter. Hertha's Javairo Dilrosun had the best chance of the first half, with his left-foot shot in the 20th minute agonisingly close to goal. For the home side, Moussa Diaby looked the most dangerous down the right-wing. The visitors got on the scoreboard in the 64th minute after defender Rekik made the most of a second shot at goal after his first effort was kept out by goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky.

Football: Teenager Zirkzee sparks Bayern's winning late show

Bayern Munich forward Kingsley Coman's knee injury which he sustained in Wednesday's Champions League win over Tottenham Hotspur, will keep him sidelined until January as it looked worse than it actually was, the club said.

The Frenchman, who has suffered several severe knee injuries in the past seasons, was injured during <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-bayern-brush-aside-mourinhos-spurs-to-claim-perfect-six-267846/amp">Bayern's 3-1 home victory</a> over Tottenham that sent them through to the competition's knockout stages as group winners with a perfect record of six wins in six games.

"Obviously we were all shocked at the moment he sustained the injury but Kingsley had a lot of luck," club doctor Hans-Wilhelm Mueller-Wohlfahrt said in a statement. "The checks showed that he will miss only three matches and he will be able to do the entire preparation in Doha."

Coman, 23, opened the scoring in the 14th minute but jarred his knee just over 10 minutes later and left the pitch in considerable pain.

He tore a capsule in his left knee and also damaged a tendon and jarred the knee joint, forcing him to wear a knee splint. The Bundesliga pauses on December&nbsp;22 and resumes about a month later following a winter break.

The five-time European champions became the first German team, and only the seventh in all, to win all six group games in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atletico-madrid-stroll-into-champions-league-knockouts-267845">Champions League</a>, giving them a much-needed lift after their domestic struggles this season.

Bayern have won the German top-flight title a record 29 times, including the last seven seasons in a row, but are currently seventh in the standings, seven points behind leaders Borussia <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-manchester-united-thrash-az-basaksehir-dump-moenchengladbach-out-of-europa-league-268032">Moenchengladbach</a>.

The champions parted company with coach Niko Kovac last month and interim boss Hansi Flick said they would immediately switch focus to putting things right in the league, where they have lost their last two games.

"We didn't get everything right today, but we won and that's a sign that we have to keep going. We now have three games until the winter break to switch our attention to," he added.

Goalkeeper Manuel Neuer hailed Bayern's "historic" achievement in Europe, but said the team were already looking ahead to Saturday's home league match against Werder Bremen.

"We didn't just want to break the record in the group, we want to win every game," Neuer added. "Now we have three more important games and we have to put our all into winning all of them."

Bayern Munich forward Kingsley Coman's knee injury which he sustained in Wednesday's Champions League win over Tottenham Hotspur, will keep him sidelined until January as it looked worse than it actually was, the club said.

Bayern Munich forward Kingsley Coman's knee injury which he sustained in Wednesday's Champions League win over Tottenham Hotspur, will keep him sidelined until January as it looked worse than it actually was, the club said. The Frenchman, who has suffered several severe knee injuries in the past seasons, was injured during Bayern's 3-1 home victory over Tottenham that sent them through to the competition's knockout stages as group winners with a perfect record of six wins in six games. "Obviously we were all shocked at the moment he sustained the injury but Kingsley had a lot of luck," club doctor Hans-Wilhelm Mueller-Wohlfahrt said in a statement. "The checks showed that he will miss only three matches and he will be able to do the entire preparation in Doha." Coman, 23, opened the scoring in the 14th minute but jarred his knee just over 10 minutes later and left the pitch in considerable pain. He tore a capsule in his left knee and also damaged a tendon and jarred the knee joint, forcing him to wear a knee splint. The Bundesliga pauses on December 22 and resumes about a month later following a winter break. The five-time European champions became the first German team, and only the seventh in all, to win all six group games in the Champions League, giving them a much-needed lift after their domestic struggles this season. Bayern have won the German top-flight title a record 29 times, including the last seven seasons in a row, but are currently seventh in the standings, seven points behind leaders Borussia Moenchengladbach. The champions parted company with coach Niko Kovac last month and interim boss Hansi Flick said they would immediately switch focus to putting things right in the league, where they have lost their last two games. "We didn't get everything right today, but we won and that's a sign that we have to keep going. We now have three games until the winter break to switch our attention to," he added. Goalkeeper Manuel Neuer hailed Bayern's "historic" achievement in Europe, but said the team were already looking ahead to Saturday's home league match against Werder Bremen. "We didn't just want to break the record in the group, we want to win every game," Neuer added. "Now we have three more important games and we have to put our all into winning all of them."

Football: Bayern forward Coman out until January with knee injury

Champions League gears up for Final 16 draw after record breaking group stage

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