Bayern Munich have suffered a blow to their league title hopes with club captain and Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer out for the next two weeks with a calf injury.

The defending Bundesliga champions confirmed Neuer, 33, will be sidelined for "around 14 days" after going off injured during Sunday's win over Fortuna Duesseldorf.

With five league games left, leaders Bayern are just a point ahead of Borussia Dortmund with the Bavarian giants on course for a seventh straight league title.

The injury-prone Neuer will miss at least their next two league games as reserve keeper Sven Ulreich steps up.

Neuer picked up the injury early in the first half of Bayern's 4-1 win, pulling up after making an apparently innocuous pass.

Head coach Niko Kovac has confirmed Neuer has the same calf problem which saw the shot-stopper miss two games earlier this month.

He will definitely miss the league match at home to resurgent Werder Bremen on Saturday, as well as next Wednesday's away German Cup semi-final, also against Bremen, followed by a league match at Nuremberg.

Neuer has faced an ongoing battle with injury in recent years. Two metatarsal fractures kept him sidelined for most of last season, while injuries to his finger and his calf have seen him miss games this term.

Bayern have said defender Mats Hummels will also take a "short break from training" after also suffering a mild leg knock.

Bayern Munich have suffered a blow to their league title hopes with club captain and Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer out for the next two weeks with a calf injury.

Bayern Munich have suffered a blow to their league title hopes with club captain and Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer out for the next two weeks with a calf injury. The defending Bundesliga champions confirmed Neuer, 33, will be sidelined for "around 14 days" after going off injured during Sunday's win over Fortuna Duesseldorf. With five league games left, leaders Bayern are just a point ahead of Borussia Dortmund with the Bavarian giants on course for a seventh straight league title. The injury-prone Neuer will miss at least their next two league games as reserve keeper Sven Ulreich steps up. Neuer picked up the injury early in the first half of Bayern's 4-1 win, pulling up after making an apparently innocuous pass. Head coach Niko Kovac has confirmed Neuer has the same calf problem which saw the shot-stopper miss two games earlier this month. He will definitely miss the league match at home to resurgent Werder Bremen on Saturday, as well as next Wednesday's away German Cup semi-final, also against Bremen, followed by a league match at Nuremberg. Neuer has faced an ongoing battle with injury in recent years. Two metatarsal fractures kept him sidelined for most of last season, while injuries to his finger and his calf have seen him miss games this term. Bayern have said defender Mats Hummels will also take a "short break from training" after also suffering a mild leg knock.

Bayern's title hopes hit as Neuer out for two weeks with calf injury

Champions Bayern Munich eased past hosts Fortuna Duesseldorf 4-1 on Sunday with winger Kingsley Coman scoring twice, to go a point clear at the top of the Bundesliga.

The Bavarians are on 67 points, with Borussia Dortmund on 66 after their 2-1 win over Mainz 05 on Saturday, and five games left in the title race. RB Leipzig are in third place on 58.

"I think we approached this game in a very serious way and we deserved to win by this score," said Bayern coach Niko Kovac, who used the same starting 11 as in their 5-0 demolition of Dortmund last week.

There were some bad news for Bayern, however, with keeper Manuel Neuer taken off in the 53rd minute with a calf muscle injury.

"It is the same calf which had caused him problems recently," said Kovac. "We will check it tomorrow and hope it is not a serious injury."

Bayern, in no mood to experience another 3-3 draw against Duesseldorf from earlier in the season, did not underestimate them this time and pressed high from the start.

It paid off when Coman found space to cross into the box, Thomas Mueller failed get a foot on it and the ball sailed past keeper Michael Rensing into goal in the 15th minute.

Bundesliga leading scorer Robert Lewandowski came close to adding another one in the 23rd but his free kick from the edge of the back flew narrowly wide.

Despite more than 60 percent possession, the visitors struggled at times with an agile and hard-working Duesseldorf defence until Coman struck again four minutes from halftime for his fifth goal of the season.

The Frenchman drilled in Joshua Kimmich's cutback, his 11th assist this season and the league leaders picked up after the break where they had left off with Serge Gnabry slotting in from a metre out in the 55th to give them a three-goal cushion.

Bayern, chasing a record-extending seventh straight league title, could have scored several more in the second half but Rensing, a former Bayern keeper, made a string of superb saves.

The hosts got a late consolation goal with a Dodi Lukebakio penalty from a Mats Hummels handball but Leon Goretzka scored Bayern' fourth in stoppage time.

Champions Bayern Munich eased past hosts Fortuna Duesseldorf 4-1 on Sunday with winger Kingsley Coman scoring twice, to go a point clear at the top of the Bundesliga.

Champions Bayern Munich eased past hosts Fortuna Duesseldorf 4-1 on Sunday with winger Kingsley Coman scoring twice, to go a point clear at the top of the Bundesliga. The Bavarians are on 67 points, with Borussia Dortmund on 66 after their 2-1 win over Mainz 05 on Saturday, and five games left in the title race. RB Leipzig are in third place on 58. "I think we approached this game in a very serious way and we deserved to win by this score," said Bayern coach Niko Kovac, who used the same starting 11 as in their 5-0 demolition of Dortmund last week. There were some bad news for Bayern, however, with keeper Manuel Neuer taken off in the 53rd minute with a calf muscle injury. "It is the same calf which had caused him problems recently," said Kovac. "We will check it tomorrow and hope it is not a serious injury." Bayern, in no mood to experience another 3-3 draw against Duesseldorf from earlier in the season, did not underestimate them this time and pressed high from the start. It paid off when Coman found space to cross into the box, Thomas Mueller failed get a foot on it and the ball sailed past keeper Michael Rensing into goal in the 15th minute. Bundesliga leading scorer Robert Lewandowski came close to adding another one in the 23rd but his free kick from the edge of the back flew narrowly wide. Despite more than 60 percent possession, the visitors struggled at times with an agile and hard-working Duesseldorf defence until Coman struck again four minutes from halftime for his fifth goal of the season. The Frenchman drilled in Joshua Kimmich's cutback, his 11th assist this season and the league leaders picked up after the break where they had left off with Serge Gnabry slotting in from a metre out in the 55th to give them a three-goal cushion. Bayern, chasing a record-extending seventh straight league title, could have scored several more in the second half but Rensing, a former Bayern keeper, made a string of superb saves. The hosts got a late consolation goal with a Dodi Lukebakio penalty from a Mats Hummels handball but Leon Goretzka scored Bayern' fourth in stoppage time.

Bayern Munich ease past Duesseldorf 4-1 to reclaim top spot

Champions Bayern Munich dismantled Bundesliga title rivals Borussia Dortmund 5-0 on Saturday (April 6), scoring four goals in a flawless first half to reclaim top spot and get back on course for a record-extending seventh straight league crown.

The Bavarians exploded into action and scored twice in the opening 17 minutes through Mats Hummels and Robert Lewandowski, adding two more from Javi Martinez and Serge Gnabry to move a point ahead of second-placed Dortmund.

Lewandowski's strike meant the Polish forward became only the fifth player in Bundesliga history to reach the 200-goal mark and the first foreigner to do so.

The hosts, who drew 1-1 at Freiburg last week, stepped off the gas after the break and controlled the game before Lewandowski scored again in the 89th minute and Bayern moved up to 64 points with six matches remaining.

Champions Bayern Munich dismantled Bundesliga title rivals Borussia Dortmund 5-0 on Saturday (April 6), scoring four goals in a flawless first half to reclaim top spot and get back on course for a record-extending seventh straight league crown.

Champions Bayern Munich dismantled Bundesliga title rivals Borussia Dortmund 5-0 on Saturday (April 6), scoring four goals in a flawless first half to reclaim top spot and get back on course for a record-extending seventh straight league crown. The Bavarians exploded into action and scored twice in the opening 17 minutes through Mats Hummels and Robert Lewandowski, adding two more from Javi Martinez and Serge Gnabry to move a point ahead of second-placed Dortmund. Lewandowski's strike meant the Polish forward became only the fifth player in Bundesliga history to reach the 200-goal mark and the first foreigner to do so. The hosts, who drew 1-1 at Freiburg last week, stepped off the gas after the break and controlled the game before Lewandowski scored again in the 89th minute and Bayern moved up to 64 points with six matches remaining.

Bayern demolish Dortmund 5-0 to reclaim Bundesliga top spot

From Pep Guardiola to Zinedine Zidane: Top football coaches and their shocking salaries

Atletico Madrid and France defender Lucas Hernandez will join Bayern Munich for €80 million ($90m) this summer, the German club announced on Wednesday.

The 23-year-old World Cup winner will sign a five-year contract starting on July 1, Bayern said in a statement.&nbsp;

The €80 million fee makes him the most expensive signing in Bayern's history, almost doubling the sum paid for Corentin Tolisso.&nbsp;

It also makes Hernandez one of the most expensive defenders in history, and one of the most expensive players ever signed by a German club.

"I am very happy that we have managed to sign Lucas Hernandez, who is a World Cup winner and one of the best defensive players in the world," said Bayern sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic.&nbsp;

"Lucas can play in central defence or at left-back. He will strengthen our team and continue the tradition of fantastic French players at our club."

The announcement is the latest sign that Bayern are planning a major squad overhaul this summer.&nbsp;

Bayern were knocked out of the Champions League in the round of 16 and earlier this month, club president Uli Hoeness declared that Bayern were launching the "biggest programme of investment the club has ever seen".&nbsp;

In January, Bayern announced that Hernandez's fellow France defender Benjamin Pavard would join from Stuttgart this summer for €35 million ($40m). Hamburg's 19-year old striker Jann Fiete Arp will also complete a move to Munich by the summer of 2020.&nbsp;

The new arrivals could push some more familiar faces towards the exit door. Veteran wingers Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery are expected to finally end their Bayern careers this summer, and there is speculation that further big names may also leave.&nbsp;

Mats Hummels and Jerome Boateng, both recently axed from the German national team set-up, will face a fight for their place in the Bayern team after the arrival of fellow defenders Hernandez and Pavard.

Hernandez has had a knee problem for a while. He has not played for Atletico since Feb 9 and missed France's recent internationals.&nbsp;

Bayern said that he would undergo an operation on Wednesday after a medical exam revealed a problem with his knee.&nbsp;

"Our medical examination revealed damage to Lucas Hernandez' right knee, which will have to be operated on," said Bayern team doctor Hans-Wilhelm Mueller-Wohlfahrt, confirming that Hernandez would, nonetheless, be fit to play by the start of next season.&nbsp;

Hernandez signed for Atletico Madrid as a youth player in 2007, and has made 110 senior appearances for the club since his first-team debut in April 2014. Last summer, he was a key player in France's World Cup-winning campaign.&nbsp;

"This is a very important day in my footballing career," said Hernandez.

"Bayern are one of the best clubs in the world. I will be proud to compete for all titles for Bayern in the future."

"I would like to thank Atletico, the management, the coaches, my teammates and the fans for 12 wonderful years in Madrid," he said.&nbsp;

"Atletico will always be a part of me, but I am now happy to be making the next step at Bayern."

Atletico Madrid and France defender Lucas Hernandez will join Bayern Munich for €80 million ($90m) this summer, the German club announced on Wednesday. The 23-year-old World Cup winner will sign a five-year contract starting on July 1, Bayern said in a statement.

Atletico Madrid and France defender Lucas Hernandez will join Bayern Munich for €80 million ($90m) this summer, the German club announced on Wednesday. The 23-year-old World Cup winner will sign a five-year contract starting on July 1, Bayern said in a statement. The €80 million fee makes him the most expensive signing in Bayern's history, almost doubling the sum paid for Corentin Tolisso. It also makes Hernandez one of the most expensive defenders in history, and one of the most expensive players ever signed by a German club. "I am very happy that we have managed to sign Lucas Hernandez, who is a World Cup winner and one of the best defensive players in the world," said Bayern sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic. "Lucas can play in central defence or at left-back. He will strengthen our team and continue the tradition of fantastic French players at our club." The announcement is the latest sign that Bayern are planning a major squad overhaul this summer. Bayern were knocked out of the Champions League in the round of 16 and earlier this month, club president Uli Hoeness declared that Bayern were launching the "biggest programme of investment the club has ever seen". In January, Bayern announced that Hernandez's fellow France defender Benjamin Pavard would join from Stuttgart this summer for €35 million ($40m). Hamburg's 19-year old striker Jann Fiete Arp will also complete a move to Munich by the summer of 2020. The new arrivals could push some more familiar faces towards the exit door. Veteran wingers Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery are expected to finally end their Bayern careers this summer, and there is speculation that further big names may also leave. Mats Hummels and Jerome Boateng, both recently axed from the German national team set-up, will face a fight for their place in the Bayern team after the arrival of fellow defenders Hernandez and Pavard. Hernandez has had a knee problem for a while. He has not played for Atletico since Feb 9 and missed France's recent internationals. Bayern said that he would undergo an operation on Wednesday after a medical exam revealed a problem with his knee. "Our medical examination revealed damage to Lucas Hernandez' right knee, which will have to be operated on," said Bayern team doctor Hans-Wilhelm Mueller-Wohlfahrt, confirming that Hernandez would, nonetheless, be fit to play by the start of next season. Hernandez signed for Atletico Madrid as a youth player in 2007, and has made 110 senior appearances for the club since his first-team debut in April 2014. Last summer, he was a key player in France's World Cup-winning campaign. "This is a very important day in my footballing career," said Hernandez. "Bayern are one of the best clubs in the world. I will be proud to compete for all titles for Bayern in the future." "I would like to thank Atletico, the management, the coaches, my teammates and the fans for 12 wonderful years in Madrid," he said. "Atletico will always be a part of me, but I am now happy to be making the next step at Bayern."

Bayern Munich pay record fee to sign World Cup winner Lucas Hernandez

Liverpool showed they are back as one of European football's powerhouses after dispatching <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-liverpool-outplay-bayern-munich-to-reach-quarter-finals-203183">Bayern Munich 3-1 in the German champions' back yard</a> on Wednesday, manager Juergen Klopp said.

Liverpool, five-times European champions and last season's Champions League runners-up, eased past the Bavarians and into the quarter-finals with two goals from Sadio Mane and one from Virgil van Dijk after a goalless first leg at Anfield.

In a dominant performance, Liverpool shrugged off an early ankle injury to captain Jordan Henderson and kept their cool after Bayern's equaliser through Joel Matip's own goal late in the first half.

Liverpool then scored with headers from Van Dijk in the 69th minute and Mane in the 84th to book their spot in the last eight.

"It is an important (win) for different reasons. Important money-wise but also confidence-wise," Klopp told reporters.

"Liverpool's self-awareness now must be 'we are back. We are back on the landscape. Back in big football'.

"That was part of the plan when we started the project," Klopp said. "We still have space for improvement but beating Bayern here is a big one."

Liverpool, who have slipped behind Manchester City in the Premier League title race in recent weeks, had lost all their away games in the Champions League competition this season prior to Wednesday.

Yet their victory saw them join Manchester City and Manchester United as well as Tottenham Hotspur in the last eight while Germany will be without a quarter-finalist for the first time in 11 years.

"We scored a wonderful goal in the first half, outstanding," Klopp said. "We conceded one, but everyone could see it was possible (for us to win). The second half I was really happy by how mature the performance was, how strong we looked, how good we defended.

"It's a big step for us. We have set a mark that this wonderful club is really at the top of the landscape of European football."

"I am really proud of the boys because it is a massive achievement. We are on a good way and I like what the boys did tonight."

Liverpool showed they are back as one of European football's powerhouses after dispatching Bayern Munich 3-1 in the German champions' back yard on Wednesday, manager Juergen Klopp said.

Liverpool showed they are back as one of European football's powerhouses after dispatching Bayern Munich 3-1 in the German champions' back yard on Wednesday, manager Juergen Klopp said. Liverpool, five-times European champions and last season's Champions League runners-up, eased past the Bavarians and into the quarter-finals with two goals from Sadio Mane and one from Virgil van Dijk after a goalless first leg at Anfield. In a dominant performance, Liverpool shrugged off an early ankle injury to captain Jordan Henderson and kept their cool after Bayern's equaliser through Joel Matip's own goal late in the first half. Liverpool then scored with headers from Van Dijk in the 69th minute and Mane in the 84th to book their spot in the last eight. "It is an important (win) for different reasons. Important money-wise but also confidence-wise," Klopp told reporters. "Liverpool's self-awareness now must be 'we are back. We are back on the landscape. Back in big football'. "That was part of the plan when we started the project," Klopp said. "We still have space for improvement but beating Bayern here is a big one." Liverpool, who have slipped behind Manchester City in the Premier League title race in recent weeks, had lost all their away games in the Champions League competition this season prior to Wednesday. Yet their victory saw them join Manchester City and Manchester United as well as Tottenham Hotspur in the last eight while Germany will be without a quarter-finalist for the first time in 11 years. "We scored a wonderful goal in the first half, outstanding," Klopp said. "We conceded one, but everyone could see it was possible (for us to win). The second half I was really happy by how mature the performance was, how strong we looked, how good we defended. "It's a big step for us. We have set a mark that this wonderful club is really at the top of the landscape of European football." "I am really proud of the boys because it is a massive achievement. We are on a good way and I like what the boys did tonight."

Liverpool are back on the big stage with Bayern Munich win, says Juergen Klopp

Liverpool showed they are back as one of<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-cristiano-ronaldos-hat-trick-against-atletico-madrid-powers-juventus-into-quarter-finals-202975"> European football's powerhouses</a> after dispatching Bayern Munich 3-1 in the German champions' back yard on Wednesday, manager Juergen Klopp said.

Liverpool, five-times European champions and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-seven-up-for-manchester-city-as-they-demolish-schalke-203025">last season's Champions League</a> runners-up, eased past the Bavarians and into the quarter-finals with two goals from Sadio Mane and one from Virgil van Dijk after a goalless first leg at Anfield.

In a dominant performance, Liverpool shrugged off an early ankle injury to captain Jordan Henderson and kept their cool after Bayern's equaliser through Joel Matip's own goal late in the first half.

Liverpool then scored with headers from Van Dijk in the 69th minute and Mane in the 84th to book their spot in the last eight.

"It is an important (win) for different reasons. Important money-wise but also confidence-wise," Klopp told reporters.

"Liverpool's self-awareness now must be 'we are back. We are back on the landscape. Back in big football'.

"That was part of the plan when we started the project," Klopp said. "We still have space for improvement but beating Bayern here is a big one."

Liverpool, who have slipped behind Manchester City in the Premier League title race in recent weeks, had lost all their away games in the Champions League competition this season prior to Wednesday.

Yet their victory saw them join Manchester City and Manchester United as well as Tottenham Hotspur in the last eight while Germany will be without a quarter-finalist for the first time in 11 years.

"We scored a wonderful goal in the first half, outstanding," Klopp said. "We conceded one, but everyone could see it was possible (for us to win). The second half I was really happy by how mature the performance was, how strong we looked, how good we defended."

"It's a big step for us. We have set a mark that this wonderful club is really at the top of the landscape of European football."

"I am really proud of the boys because it is a massive achievement. We are on a good way and I like what the boys did tonight."

Liverpool showed they are back as one of European football's powerhouses after dispatching Bayern Munich 3-1 in the German champions' back yard on Wednesday, manager Juergen Klopp said. Liverpool, five-times European champions and last season's Champions League runners-up, eased past the Bavarians and into the quarter-finals with two goals from Sadio Mane and one from Virgil van Dijk after a goalless first leg at Anfield. In a dominant performance, Liverpool shrugged off an early ankle injury to captain Jordan Henderson and kept their cool after Bayern's equaliser through Joel Matip's own goal late in the first half. Liverpool then scored with headers from Van Dijk in the 69th minute and Mane in the 84th to book their spot in the last eight. "It is an important (win) for different reasons. Important money-wise but also confidence-wise," Klopp told reporters. "Liverpool's self-awareness now must be 'we are back. We are back on the landscape. Back in big football'. "That was part of the plan when we started the project," Klopp said. "We still have space for improvement but beating Bayern here is a big one." Liverpool, who have slipped behind Manchester City in the Premier League title race in recent weeks, had lost all their away games in the Champions League competition this season prior to Wednesday. Yet their victory saw them join Manchester City and Manchester United as well as Tottenham Hotspur in the last eight while Germany will be without a quarter-finalist for the first time in 11 years. "We scored a wonderful goal in the first half, outstanding," Klopp said. "We conceded one, but everyone could see it was possible (for us to win). The second half I was really happy by how mature the performance was, how strong we looked, how good we defended." "It's a big step for us. We have set a mark that this wonderful club is really at the top of the landscape of European football." "I am really proud of the boys because it is a massive achievement. We are on a good way and I like what the boys did tonight."

Champions League: Liverpool outplay Bayern Munich to reach quarter-finals

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri needs no convincing about winger Callum Hudson-Odoi's immense potential but said he is reluctant to put too much pressure on the teenager as it could prove "dangerous" for his development.

Hudson-Odoi, who emerged as a transfer target for German giants Bayern Munich in January, came off the bench to score a late goal in Chelsea's 3-0 win over Dynamo Kiev in the first leg of their Europa League last-16 clash on Thursday.

Supporters were chanting for Hudson-Odoi to be brought on before the 18-year-old, who has not been able to break into the first team this season, was introduced with 12 minutes remaining.

"He doesn't have to do anything to convince me. He's a very great player. In my opinion, a player at 18 years old cannot be at the top. He needs to improve until he's 22 or 23," Sarri told a news conference.

"To have pressure when you're 18 is dangerous. You can lose (sight of) the target. When you're 18 the target is to improve tactically, mentally and physically. I don't like to speak about him for this reason.

"Now he needs to improve without the pressure of the media, the fans and the club, but he is in my mind for every match."

The win put Chelsea in a strong position to reach the quarter-finals of Europe's second-tier club competition but Italian Sarri warned his players against complacency ahead of the return leg in Kiev next Thursday.

"Now we have to be careful. We have to go there with a good level of application and determination if we want to qualify," Sarri added.

"If you concede a goal you can go mentally in trouble. We have to go there with the right level of attention."

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri needs no convincing about winger Callum Hudson-Odoi's immense potential but said he is reluctant to put too much pressure on the teenager as it could prove "dangerous" for his development.

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri needs no convincing about winger Callum Hudson-Odoi's immense potential but said he is reluctant to put too much pressure on the teenager as it could prove "dangerous" for his development. Hudson-Odoi, who emerged as a transfer target for German giants Bayern Munich in January, came off the bench to score a late goal in Chelsea's 3-0 win over Dynamo Kiev in the first leg of their Europa League last-16 clash on Thursday. Supporters were chanting for Hudson-Odoi to be brought on before the 18-year-old, who has not been able to break into the first team this season, was introduced with 12 minutes remaining. "He doesn't have to do anything to convince me. He's a very great player. In my opinion, a player at 18 years old cannot be at the top. He needs to improve until he's 22 or 23," Sarri told a news conference. "To have pressure when you're 18 is dangerous. You can lose (sight of) the target. When you're 18 the target is to improve tactically, mentally and physically. I don't like to speak about him for this reason. "Now he needs to improve without the pressure of the media, the fans and the club, but he is in my mind for every match." The win put Chelsea in a strong position to reach the quarter-finals of Europe's second-tier club competition but Italian Sarri warned his players against complacency ahead of the return leg in Kiev next Thursday. "Now we have to be careful. We have to go there with a good level of application and determination if we want to qualify," Sarri added. "If you concede a goal you can go mentally in trouble. We have to go there with the right level of attention."

Too much pressure can be 'dangerous' for Chelsea's Hudson-Odoi, says Maurizio Sarri

Manchester United pulled off one of the greatest comebacks in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-champions-league-defending-champ-real-madrid-knocked-out-by-ajax-201421">Champions League history as Marcus</a> Rashford's last-gasp VAR penalty sealed a 3-1 win at Paris St Germain on Wednesday and sent the English side into the quarter-finals on away goals.

Never in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-fight-back-to-snatch-unlikely-late-win-at-juventus-176124">106 attempts in Europe's</a> premium club competition had a team progressed in a knockout tie after a 2-0 home defeat, but Rashford's stoppage-time penalty - the first he had taken for the club - put Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side through in the most dramatic fashion as the tie finished level at 3-3.

The result came 20 years after Solskjaer wrote his name into the club's folklore by scoring the injury-time winner in the final victory over Bayern Munich to complete the treble of Champions League, Premier League and FA Cup.

Now back as caretaker manager after the dismissal of Jose Mourinho, the Norwegian has overseen a remarkable turnaround as United have won 14 of 17 games in all competitions and hauled themselves back into the top-four battle in the Premier League.

Progress in Europe looked a step too far, though, after United were outplayed by PSG at Old Trafford and arrived in Paris short of a host of key players through suspension and injury.

However, with Alex Ferguson watching proudly from the stands, Solksjaer's team achieved what no other has managed in the competition - as well as making himself the shortest of odds to fill the biggest seat in English football on a permanent basis at the end of the season.

"It's this club. It's what we do, that's Man United, that's the Champions League, it's what it does."" said Solskjaer, who was managing Norwegian club Molde before getting the call to replace Mourinho in December.

"It's a typical Manchester United night. We had a game plan and the belief in the boys was what we hoped for. Everyone shares a huge pride. The players were focussed, they listened to all the instructions and they knew that we had to defend well. There was a lot of quality."

While United march on, PSG are left to wonder how, yet again, they have failed in Europe despite spending millions to put together a team that crushes all domestic opposition.

They had lost only two of their last 50 European games at the Parc des Princes but have still yet to reach even the semi-finals of the Champions League.

"The plan was to get the first goal, be in the game with 10 minutes to go," Solskjaer said and he could not have scripted it any better as Romelu Lukaku intercepted a weak back pass from Thilo Kehrer, rounded Gianluigi Buffon and slid the ball into the empty net after two minutes.

PSG dominated possession, though, and with United's defence all over the place, it was no surprise when Juan Bernat knocked in Kylian Mbappe's cross to level after 12 minutes.

The hosts continued to control the game but United took the advantage again with their next chance when Buffon failed to deal with a fierce, low Rashford shot and Lukaku poked home the rebound late in the first half.

PSG, with injured Brazil striker Neymar watching from the stands, had all the ball in the second half without ever looking very threatening and seemingly settling for their 3-2 aggregate lead, while United were disciplined and tireless in defence.

The visitors started to press forward in the final 10 minutes, with little joy, until Diogo Dalot fired in a speculative long-range shot that was blocked by the leaping Presnel Kimpembe.

Nobody except Dalot seemed to notice the handball but the referee called for a review and pictures showed that the ball hit the back of Kimpembe's arm as he jumped.

Alter a lengthy wait, the penalty was awarded.

England striker Rashford, who had never taken a penalty in a competitive game for United, kept his nerve during the long delay to smash it past Buffon.

PSG desperately pushed for the goal that would have sent them through in a further four minutes of play but United held firm and celebrated wildly with their fans when the whistle sounded.

In contrast, the stunned home players sunk to the ground in disbelief at a near-silent stadium.

"It is very hard to lose, very hard to accept," said PSG coach Thomas Tuchel, the latest to fail to deliver the European glory the club's Qatari owners have invested so much to achieve.

"If you lose a game like this it's horrible and cruel because we did not deserve to go out after those 180 minutes."

Manchester United pulled off one of the greatest comebacks in Champions League history as Marcus Rashford's last-gasp VAR penalty sealed a 3-1 win at Paris St Germain on Wednesday and sent the English side into the quarter-finals on away goals.

Manchester United pulled off one of the greatest comebacks in Champions League history as Marcus Rashford's last-gasp VAR penalty sealed a 3-1 win at Paris St Germain on Wednesday and sent the English side into the quarter-finals on away goals. Never in 106 attempts in Europe's premium club competition had a team progressed in a knockout tie after a 2-0 home defeat, but Rashford's stoppage-time penalty - the first he had taken for the club - put Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side through in the most dramatic fashion as the tie finished level at 3-3. The result came 20 years after Solskjaer wrote his name into the club's folklore by scoring the injury-time winner in the final victory over Bayern Munich to complete the treble of Champions League, Premier League and FA Cup. Now back as caretaker manager after the dismissal of Jose Mourinho, the Norwegian has overseen a remarkable turnaround as United have won 14 of 17 games in all competitions and hauled themselves back into the top-four battle in the Premier League. Progress in Europe looked a step too far, though, after United were outplayed by PSG at Old Trafford and arrived in Paris short of a host of key players through suspension and injury. However, with Alex Ferguson watching proudly from the stands, Solksjaer's team achieved what no other has managed in the competition - as well as making himself the shortest of odds to fill the biggest seat in English football on a permanent basis at the end of the season. "It's this club. It's what we do, that's Man United, that's the Champions League, it's what it does."" said Solskjaer, who was managing Norwegian club Molde before getting the call to replace Mourinho in December. "It's a typical Manchester United night. We had a game plan and the belief in the boys was what we hoped for. Everyone shares a huge pride. The players were focussed, they listened to all the instructions and they knew that we had to defend well. There was a lot of quality." While United march on, PSG are left to wonder how, yet again, they have failed in Europe despite spending millions to put together a team that crushes all domestic opposition. They had lost only two of their last 50 European games at the Parc des Princes but have still yet to reach even the semi-finals of the Champions League. "The plan was to get the first goal, be in the game with 10 minutes to go," Solskjaer said and he could not have scripted it any better as Romelu Lukaku intercepted a weak back pass from Thilo Kehrer, rounded Gianluigi Buffon and slid the ball into the empty net after two minutes. PSG dominated possession, though, and with United's defence all over the place, it was no surprise when Juan Bernat knocked in Kylian Mbappe's cross to level after 12 minutes. The hosts continued to control the game but United took the advantage again with their next chance when Buffon failed to deal with a fierce, low Rashford shot and Lukaku poked home the rebound late in the first half. PSG, with injured Brazil striker Neymar watching from the stands, had all the ball in the second half without ever looking very threatening and seemingly settling for their 3-2 aggregate lead, while United were disciplined and tireless in defence. The visitors started to press forward in the final 10 minutes, with little joy, until Diogo Dalot fired in a speculative long-range shot that was blocked by the leaping Presnel Kimpembe. Nobody except Dalot seemed to notice the handball but the referee called for a review and pictures showed that the ball hit the back of Kimpembe's arm as he jumped. Alter a lengthy wait, the penalty was awarded. England striker Rashford, who had never taken a penalty in a competitive game for United, kept his nerve during the long delay to smash it past Buffon. PSG desperately pushed for the goal that would have sent them through in a further four minutes of play but United held firm and celebrated wildly with their fans when the whistle sounded. In contrast, the stunned home players sunk to the ground in disbelief at a near-silent stadium. "It is very hard to lose, very hard to accept," said PSG coach Thomas Tuchel, the latest to fail to deliver the European glory the club's Qatari owners have invested so much to achieve. "If you lose a game like this it's horrible and cruel because we did not deserve to go out after those 180 minutes."

Rashford's heroics stun Paris St Germain, Manchester United enters Champions League quarter-finals

A robbery took place at Senegal striker Sadio Mane's house while he was playing for Liverpool in a Champions League last-16 first-leg match against Bayern Munich at Anfield.&nbsp;

As per a report by BBC, several watches, mobile phones and car keys were missing.&nbsp;

Liverpool and German champions Bayern drew 0-0.

It was not the first time Mane's house was targeted since he moved to Liverpool, with the 26-year-old also burgled during a home Champions League game against Slovenian side Maribor in November 2017.

A robbery took place at Senegal striker Sadio Mane's house while he was playing for Liverpool in a Champions League last-16 first-leg match against Bayern Munich at Anfield.

A robbery took place at Senegal striker Sadio Mane's house while he was playing for Liverpool in a Champions League last-16 first-leg match against Bayern Munich at Anfield. As per a report by BBC, several watches, mobile phones and car keys were missing. Liverpool and German champions Bayern drew 0-0. It was not the first time Mane's house was targeted since he moved to Liverpool, with the 26-year-old also burgled during a home Champions League game against Slovenian side Maribor in November 2017.

Sadio Mane's house robbed during Champions League match

Liverpool defender Andy Robertson feels his team's goalless home draw with Bayern Munich can be crucial to their hopes of qualifying for the Champions League quarter-finals though he reckons the German side will be happier with Tuesday's result.

Liverpool were held by Bayern in the first leg of their last 16 clash, leaving the teams with all to play for when they meet again in Munich on March 13 and Robertson said last season's runners-up must be more clinical in front of goal to progress.

"Of course they'll be happier with a clean sheet but a clean sheet at home in the Champions League is so crucial," left back Robertson told Liverpool's website.

"We know that when we go over there one goal counts as a wee bit more than that, and if we can grab one then they have to score two at least.

"These are all things that come into play and with the chances we've got, if we can be a bit more clinical we believe we can score over there."

Robertson said Liverpool must temporarily put that match on the back-burner, with a potentially tough test in the Premier League on Sunday when they travel to Old Trafford to play their in-form arch-rivals Manchester United.

"It's a long way away now and it needs to get put to the back of the mind because we've got big Premier League games coming up so Bayern are forgotten about for just now."

Liverpool defender Andy Robertson feels his team's goalless home draw with Bayern Munich can be crucial to their hopes of qualifying for the Champions League quarter-finals though he reckons the German side will be happier with Tuesday's result.

Liverpool defender Andy Robertson feels his team's goalless home draw with Bayern Munich can be crucial to their hopes of qualifying for the Champions League quarter-finals though he reckons the German side will be happier with Tuesday's result. Liverpool were held by Bayern in the first leg of their last 16 clash, leaving the teams with all to play for when they meet again in Munich on March 13 and Robertson said last season's runners-up must be more clinical in front of goal to progress. "Of course they'll be happier with a clean sheet but a clean sheet at home in the Champions League is so crucial," left back Robertson told Liverpool's website. "We know that when we go over there one goal counts as a wee bit more than that, and if we can grab one then they have to score two at least. "These are all things that come into play and with the chances we've got, if we can be a bit more clinical we believe we can score over there." Robertson said Liverpool must temporarily put that match on the back-burner, with a potentially tough test in the Premier League on Sunday when they travel to Old Trafford to play their in-form arch-rivals Manchester United. "It's a long way away now and it needs to get put to the back of the mind because we've got big Premier League games coming up so Bayern are forgotten about for just now."

Bayern stalemate can prove crucial, says Liverpool's Robertson

Perhaps we have been spoilt in recent seasons of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/profligate-barca-leave-champions-league-progress-up-in-the-air-198410">Champions League football</a> with high-scoring, free-flowing games becoming the norm rather than the exception.

But at Anfield on Tuesday, Liverpool and Bayern Munich, in a fixture that would have generated excited anticipation in any decade from the 1970s onwards, were unable to deliver on the high expectations.

The goalless draw in their last-16 first leg tie was by no means dull and neither side could be accused of negativity but there was certainly a little too much respect shown and as a result a conservatism that left the crowd wanting more.

It was also a case of two managers and teams which knew exactly the dangers that faced them.

Liverpool coach Juergen Klopp emerged as a manager in the Bundesliga and faced many battles with Bayern in his time at Borussia Dortmund. He knew his opponent inside out.

Likewise Bayern boss Niko Kovac will have been very familiar with Klopp's approach and the dangers of being swept aside in a more open game.

Familiarity bred caution and the result was one which left Kovac sounding the more satisfied of the pair.

"It is half full, half empty, I can’t remember that many clubs have not lost and not conceded at Anfield, they are a sensationally good team," said the Croatian.

"My team in defence and as a whole kept everything tight at the back and played at a high level, tactically and mentally. We didn’t score but we didn’t let one in.

"We are at home now, it is an advantage and we will play in front of 75,000. We know if we concede, we have to win. At this level, very small differences can decide everything so we will wait and see."

"I am the last person to start celebrating. We are modest, focused and have to give 100 percent in the next game," added Kovac.

Klopp was more critical but equally glad to still be in the contest when it resumes in three weeks at Bayern's Allianz Arena.

"We can play better, we should play better. But it was like this," he said.

"The tie is not over. We had to create a basis which we can use in the second leg. From a result point of view it's absolutely OK.

"It's not a dream result but it's a good one and we can work with that."

Perhaps we have been spoilt in recent seasons of Champions League football with high-scoring, free-flowing games becoming the norm rather than the exception. But at Anfield on Tuesday, Liverpool and Bayern Munich, in a fixture that would have generated excited anticipation in any decade from the 1970s onwards, were unable to deliver on the high expectations.

Perhaps we have been spoilt in recent seasons of Champions League football with high-scoring, free-flowing games becoming the norm rather than the exception. But at Anfield on Tuesday, Liverpool and Bayern Munich, in a fixture that would have generated excited anticipation in any decade from the 1970s onwards, were unable to deliver on the high expectations. The goalless draw in their last-16 first leg tie was by no means dull and neither side could be accused of negativity but there was certainly a little too much respect shown and as a result a conservatism that left the crowd wanting more. It was also a case of two managers and teams which knew exactly the dangers that faced them. Liverpool coach Juergen Klopp emerged as a manager in the Bundesliga and faced many battles with Bayern in his time at Borussia Dortmund. He knew his opponent inside out. Likewise Bayern boss Niko Kovac will have been very familiar with Klopp's approach and the dangers of being swept aside in a more open game. Familiarity bred caution and the result was one which left Kovac sounding the more satisfied of the pair. "It is half full, half empty, I can’t remember that many clubs have not lost and not conceded at Anfield, they are a sensationally good team," said the Croatian. "My team in defence and as a whole kept everything tight at the back and played at a high level, tactically and mentally. We didn’t score but we didn’t let one in. "We are at home now, it is an advantage and we will play in front of 75,000. We know if we concede, we have to win. At this level, very small differences can decide everything so we will wait and see." "I am the last person to start celebrating. We are modest, focused and have to give 100 percent in the next game," added Kovac. Klopp was more critical but equally glad to still be in the contest when it resumes in three weeks at Bayern's Allianz Arena. "We can play better, we should play better. But it was like this," he said. "The tie is not over. We had to create a basis which we can use in the second leg. From a result point of view it's absolutely OK. "It's not a dream result but it's a good one and we can work with that."

Champions League: Familiarity breeds caution; Bayern, Liverpool play out goalless draw

Jurgen Klopp has buried the hatchet of his old Bundesliga rivalry with Bayern Munich but wants Liverpool to show they are Champions League contenders by beating the German giants when the sides meet in the first leg of their last 16 tie on Tuesday.

Bayern have won the Bundesliga for the past six years since Klopp's Dortmund claimed back-to-back titles in 2011 and 2012.

Dortmund also lost the Champions League final to Bayern in 2013 and the rivalry between the two was intensified as Bayern picked off some of Klopp's best players in Mario Goetze, Mats Hummels and Robert Lewandowski.

"It's nothing, not a little bit personal," said Klopp on Monday. "There were never any negative things with Bayern but when we played them or when they bought our players how could I be happy and say 'Great, good idea I'll bring him in my car.'&nbsp;

"That was not nice for us at Dortmund but it's part of the business. In these moments I was not happy, but it is long ago."

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Join us LIVE with the boss, ahead of our clash with <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBayernEN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FCBayernEN</a>. 
 
Klopp gives the latest team news and updates as <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChampionsLeague</a> football returns to Anfield. 🙌 
 
▶️ Enjoy more on <a href="https://twitter.com/LFCTV?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LFCTV</a> GO: <a href="https://t.co/BxfzKkm3b4">https://t.co/BxfzKkm3b4</a> <a href="https://t.co/mWtv04CR89">https://t.co/mWtv04CR89</a>
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Despite reaching four semi-finals and a quarter-final since 2013, Bayern have not added to their five European Cup wins since Arjen Robben's late winner at Wembley six years ago.

Liverpool also came close to adding to their five European crowns last season when losing out to Real Madrid in the final, but Klopp believes the fact his side are even considered contenders for the title now is a sure sign of progress since he was hired in 2015.

"The best thing of all the things we did so far since we are together is that we are a real competitor again. That is of course not enough, but it is a big step," added Klopp.

"Being not only part of the competition but people thinking we can beat Bayern, that's a big thing. The story so far is a nice one but not finished yet."

Liverpool have had 10 days to prepare for Bayern's visit, but despite the lay-off Klopp still has defensive problems to resolve.

Virgil van Dijk is suspended, Joe Gomez is sidelined with a lower leg fracture and Dejan Lovren faces a race against time to recover from a hamstring injury, so Joel Matip and Fabinho are expected to form a make-shift centre-back pairing.

However, Klopp is hoping the power of Anfield's famous atmosphere on a European night will give his side the extra helping hand they need to take a lead to Germany in three weeks' time.

"In Germany a lot of people talk now about the atmosphere at Anfield. There was a lot of talk that we are maybe the most emotional club in world football," added Klopp.

"Emotion in my opinion is a very positive thing, so let's show that tomorrow night."

Jurgen Klopp has buried the hatchet of his old Bundesliga rivalry with Bayern Munich but wants Liverpool to show they are Champions League contenders by beating the German giants when the sides meet in the first leg of their last 16 tie on Tuesday.

Jurgen Klopp has buried the hatchet of his old Bundesliga rivalry with Bayern Munich but wants Liverpool to show they are Champions League contenders by beating the German giants when the sides meet in the first leg of their last 16 tie on Tuesday. Bayern have won the Bundesliga for the past six years since Klopp's Dortmund claimed back-to-back titles in 2011 and 2012. Dortmund also lost the Champions League final to Bayern in 2013 and the rivalry between the two was intensified as Bayern picked off some of Klopp's best players in Mario Goetze, Mats Hummels and Robert Lewandowski. "It's nothing, not a little bit personal," said Klopp on Monday. "There were never any negative things with Bayern but when we played them or when they bought our players how could I be happy and say 'Great, good idea I'll bring him in my car.' "That was not nice for us at Dortmund but it's part of the business. In these moments I was not happy, but it is long ago." Join us LIVE with the boss, ahead of our clash with @FCBayernEN. Klopp gives the latest team news and updates as @ChampionsLeague football returns to Anfield. 🙌 ▶️ Enjoy more on @LFCTV GO: https://t.co/BxfzKkm3b4 https://t.co/mWtv04CR89 — Liverpool FC (@LFC) February 18, 2019 × Despite reaching four semi-finals and a quarter-final since 2013, Bayern have not added to their five European Cup wins since Arjen Robben's late winner at Wembley six years ago. Liverpool also came close to adding to their five European crowns last season when losing out to Real Madrid in the final, but Klopp believes the fact his side are even considered contenders for the title now is a sure sign of progress since he was hired in 2015. "The best thing of all the things we did so far since we are together is that we are a real competitor again. That is of course not enough, but it is a big step," added Klopp. "Being not only part of the competition but people thinking we can beat Bayern, that's a big thing. The story so far is a nice one but not finished yet." Liverpool have had 10 days to prepare for Bayern's visit, but despite the lay-off Klopp still has defensive problems to resolve. Virgil van Dijk is suspended, Joe Gomez is sidelined with a lower leg fracture and Dejan Lovren faces a race against time to recover from a hamstring injury, so Joel Matip and Fabinho are expected to form a make-shift centre-back pairing. However, Klopp is hoping the power of Anfield's famous atmosphere on a European night will give his side the extra helping hand they need to take a lead to Germany in three weeks' time. "In Germany a lot of people talk now about the atmosphere at Anfield. There was a lot of talk that we are maybe the most emotional club in world football," added Klopp. "Emotion in my opinion is a very positive thing, so let's show that tomorrow night."

'Nothing personal' in beating Bayern for Jurgen Klopp

Bayern Munich's on-form striker Kingsley Coman has been given the green light to face Liverpool in the Champions League after fears he had sustained ligament damage in the 3-2 Bundesliga win over Augsburg were dispelled on Saturday.

Coman, 22, put in an outstanding display on Friday, scoring twice and making the third goal, as Bayern twice came from behind despite conceding an own goal with just 13 seconds gone.

Bayern, who face Liverpool at Anfield at Tuesday in the last 16 first leg match, were left holding their breath on Coman's fitness.

Coach Niko Kovac seemed pessimistic Friday and said it would be "annoying" if the Frenchman, who only returned from injury in December, missed the Liverpool match.

But on Saturday Bayern gave Coman the go-ahead.

"After a thorough examination conducted by the Bayern medical staff Saturday morning we can say it was a false alert," the club said on its website.

Coman only returned to full fitness in December after tearing ligaments in the same ankle last August.

"When he was injured (on the opening day of the season), we missed him a lot," said Kovac.

"So I hope he can play (against Liverpool)."

Bayern's away victory on Friday saw the defending champions cut the gap on leaders Borussia Dortmund to just two points. Dortmund play bottom side Nuremberg on Monday.

Bayern Munich's on-form striker Kingsley Coman has been given the green light to face Liverpool in the Champions League after fears he had sustained ligament damage in the 3-2 Bundesliga win over Augsburg were dispelled on Saturday.

Bayern Munich's on-form striker Kingsley Coman has been given the green light to face Liverpool in the Champions League after fears he had sustained ligament damage in the 3-2 Bundesliga win over Augsburg were dispelled on Saturday. Coman, 22, put in an outstanding display on Friday, scoring twice and making the third goal, as Bayern twice came from behind despite conceding an own goal with just 13 seconds gone. Bayern, who face Liverpool at Anfield at Tuesday in the last 16 first leg match, were left holding their breath on Coman's fitness. Coach Niko Kovac seemed pessimistic Friday and said it would be "annoying" if the Frenchman, who only returned from injury in December, missed the Liverpool match. But on Saturday Bayern gave Coman the go-ahead. "After a thorough examination conducted by the Bayern medical staff Saturday morning we can say it was a false alert," the club said on its website. Coman only returned to full fitness in December after tearing ligaments in the same ankle last August. "When he was injured (on the opening day of the season), we missed him a lot," said Kovac. "So I hope he can play (against Liverpool)." Bayern's away victory on Friday saw the defending champions cut the gap on leaders Borussia Dortmund to just two points. Dortmund play bottom side Nuremberg on Monday.

Bayern Munich clear Kingsley Coman for Liverpool Champions League match

Bundesliga leaders Borussia Dortmund drew 1-1 at Eintracht Frankfurt on Saturday but increased the gap with second-place Bayern Munich to seven points after the champions' shock loss at Bayer Leverkusen.

Dortmund, who face Tottenham Hotspur in the Champions League Round of 16 later this month, initially looked impressed by Frankfurt's tough, physical game but that lasted for only 20 minutes.

The visitors put their foot on the gas and Marco Reus scored the lead after good early work from Raphael Guerreiro in the 22nd minute, also hitting the woodwork a little later.

Frankfurt's Ante Rebic also hit the post before Bundesliga leading scorer Luka Jovic drew the hosts level in the 36th with his 14th goal of the campaign.

Both teams had their share of chances in the second half with Dortmund having close to 70 percent of possession.

"It was a very tough game, difficult with a lot of intensity. They pressed high early on but then we did it a bit better," said Dortmund coach Lucien Favre.

"The second half was good for both sides. We both tried to win it. We should have played a couple of moves a bit better. We wanted to win but we can live with the draw."

The point was enough to lift Dortmund to 49 and stretch their lead over Bayern, who are stuck on 42 and dropped to third place after their 3-1 defeat at Leverkusen, to seven.

Borussia Moenchengladbach moved into second place on goal difference, ahead of Bayern, following their 2-0 win at Schalke 04 with late goals from Christoph Kramer and Florian Neuhaus.

Bundesliga leaders Borussia Dortmund drew 1-1 at Eintracht Frankfurt on Saturday but increased the gap with second-place Bayern Munich to seven points after the champions' shock loss at Bayer Leverkusen.

Bundesliga leaders Borussia Dortmund drew 1-1 at Eintracht Frankfurt on Saturday but increased the gap with second-place Bayern Munich to seven points after the champions' shock loss at Bayer Leverkusen. Dortmund, who face Tottenham Hotspur in the Champions League Round of 16 later this month, initially looked impressed by Frankfurt's tough, physical game but that lasted for only 20 minutes. The visitors put their foot on the gas and Marco Reus scored the lead after good early work from Raphael Guerreiro in the 22nd minute, also hitting the woodwork a little later. Frankfurt's Ante Rebic also hit the post before Bundesliga leading scorer Luka Jovic drew the hosts level in the 36th with his 14th goal of the campaign. Both teams had their share of chances in the second half with Dortmund having close to 70 percent of possession. "It was a very tough game, difficult with a lot of intensity. They pressed high early on but then we did it a bit better," said Dortmund coach Lucien Favre. "The second half was good for both sides. We both tried to win it. We should have played a couple of moves a bit better. We wanted to win but we can live with the draw." The point was enough to lift Dortmund to 49 and stretch their lead over Bayern, who are stuck on 42 and dropped to third place after their 3-1 defeat at Leverkusen, to seven. Borussia Moenchengladbach moved into second place on goal difference, ahead of Bayern, following their 2-0 win at Schalke 04 with late goals from Christoph Kramer and Florian Neuhaus.

Dortmund draw at Frankfurt but increase lead at top

Leon Goretzka scored twice to give champions Bayern Munich a 3-1 victory at Hoffenheim on Friday (January 18) and cut Borussia Dortmund's lead to three points as the Bundesliga resumed after the winter break.

The Germany midfielder scored both his goals in the first half and Robert Lewandowski added another in the 87th minute to earn the three points that lifted Bayern to 39, three behind Dortmund, who travel to RB Leipzig on Saturday (January 19).

Bayern, who have now won their last six league games, were eager to lay a marker down at the start of the year, with Dortmund in command of the league and Liverpool awaiting in the Champions League round of 16 next month.

Hoffenheim coach Julian Nagelsmann had won the previous two home matches in the league against Bayern but his team were under pressure from the start and Oliver Baumann made a desperate stop on the line after a goal-mouth scramble.

He made another sensational save on Lewandowski's 34th minute header but was beaten on the rebound by Goretzka.

The 23-year-old Goretzka got his second in first-half stoppage time to complete a textbook Bayern counter-attack over 80 metres.

But the visitors' superiority was reduced after the interval and it was Hoffenheim who were more dangerous, threatening on the break and cutting the deficit with Nico Schulz's fine finish in the 59th minute.

Poland striker Lewandowski grabbed Bayern's third goal three minutes from time to seal victory and move them within striking distance of Dortmund.

Leon Goretzka scored twice to give champions Bayern Munich a 3-1 victory at Hoffenheim on Friday (January 18) and cut Borussia Dortmund's lead to three points as the Bundesliga resumed after the winter break.

Leon Goretzka scored twice to give champions Bayern Munich a 3-1 victory at Hoffenheim on Friday (January 18) and cut Borussia Dortmund's lead to three points as the Bundesliga resumed after the winter break. The Germany midfielder scored both his goals in the first half and Robert Lewandowski added another in the 87th minute to earn the three points that lifted Bayern to 39, three behind Dortmund, who travel to RB Leipzig on Saturday (January 19). Bayern, who have now won their last six league games, were eager to lay a marker down at the start of the year, with Dortmund in command of the league and Liverpool awaiting in the Champions League round of 16 next month. Hoffenheim coach Julian Nagelsmann had won the previous two home matches in the league against Bayern but his team were under pressure from the start and Oliver Baumann made a desperate stop on the line after a goal-mouth scramble. He made another sensational save on Lewandowski's 34th minute header but was beaten on the rebound by Goretzka. The 23-year-old Goretzka got his second in first-half stoppage time to complete a textbook Bayern counter-attack over 80 metres. But the visitors' superiority was reduced after the interval and it was Hoffenheim who were more dangerous, threatening on the break and cutting the deficit with Nico Schulz's fine finish in the 59th minute. Poland striker Lewandowski grabbed Bayern's third goal three minutes from time to seal victory and move them within striking distance of Dortmund.

Leon Goretzka's two goals gives Bayern win again to cut Dortmund's lead

Bayern Munich have reached an agreement to sign French defender Benjamin Pavard, who will join the German champions on a five-year deal from next season, the Bavarian club's sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic said on Wednesday.

The 22-year-old currently plays for Bundesliga rivals VfB Stuttgart and was involved in France's 2018 World Cup final victory over Croatia in Russia, a tournament where he also scored a stunning goal in the Round of 16 win over Argentina.

"I can announce that we managed to get the services of Benjamin Pavard from July 1, 2019," Salihamidzic told reporters during a Bayern training camp in Qatar, without giving any financial details of the transfer.&nbsp;

"He signed a five-year contract.

"He can be deployed in various positions. He can play on the right. He is a young player, a world champions and we are happy to have signed him."

Salihamidzic also confirmed Bayern`s interest in Chelsea teenage forward Callum Hudson-Odoi, as they look to boost their frontline following the expected departure of veteran wingers Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery at the end of the season.&nbsp;

"He is a very interesting player whom we really want to sign," Salihamidzic added of the 18-year-old. "He has qualities that fit into our game. He can dribble well and has a drive towards goal. He has a lot of potential."

The season resumes next week after the annual winter break with Bayern, who have won the last six league titles, in second place, six points behind leaders Borussia

Dortmund after a dip in form following a strong start to the season.

The Bavarians also face Liverpool in the Champions League Round of 16 next month.

Bayern Munich have reached an agreement to sign French defender Benjamin Pavard, who will join the German champions on a five-year deal from next season, the Bavarian club's sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic said on Wednesday.

Bayern Munich have reached an agreement to sign French defender Benjamin Pavard, who will join the German champions on a five-year deal from next season, the Bavarian club's sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic said on Wednesday. The 22-year-old currently plays for Bundesliga rivals VfB Stuttgart and was involved in France's 2018 World Cup final victory over Croatia in Russia, a tournament where he also scored a stunning goal in the Round of 16 win over Argentina. "I can announce that we managed to get the services of Benjamin Pavard from July 1, 2019," Salihamidzic told reporters during a Bayern training camp in Qatar, without giving any financial details of the transfer. "He signed a five-year contract. "He can be deployed in various positions. He can play on the right. He is a young player, a world champions and we are happy to have signed him." Salihamidzic also confirmed Bayern`s interest in Chelsea teenage forward Callum Hudson-Odoi, as they look to boost their frontline following the expected departure of veteran wingers Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery at the end of the season. "He is a very interesting player whom we really want to sign," Salihamidzic added of the 18-year-old. "He has qualities that fit into our game. He can dribble well and has a drive towards goal. He has a lot of potential." The season resumes next week after the annual winter break with Bayern, who have won the last six league titles, in second place, six points behind leaders Borussia Dortmund after a dip in form following a strong start to the season. The Bavarians also face Liverpool in the Champions League Round of 16 next month.

Bayern recruitment drive starts with France defender Pavard

Bayern Munich forward Robert Lewandowski says he envisages finishing his career with the Bavarian club after this summer's talk of a possible transfer for the prolific Pole.

"I'm not thinking of changing club. I admit it, this summer it could have been a subject for debate but that's now all finished," Lewandowski said in an interview with German sports daily Bild.

"It's very likely that I'll stay here for a long time. I identify totally with Bayern," added the 30-year-old who joined Bayern in 2014 but who was on the radar of both Real Madrid and Chelsea in the summer.

Bayern bosses, however, averted a transfer, insisting that last season's top Bundesliga scorer, with 29 goals, was not for sale.

"I have the feeling that since all these rumours and problems were buried, I am once again with all my heart with Bayern, at 100 per cent."

Lewandowski, however, did urge Bayern to sign up some stars to help their bid for a first Champions League trophy since 2013.

The German champions have been linked with a big-money move for French World Cup-winning defender Lucas Hernandez from Atletico Madrid.

"It would help us more if one or two world-class players join us rather than five good-level players," he said.

Bayern face a tough draw in Champions League last 16, where they will play Premier League leaders Liverpool, away on February 19 and home on March 13.

Bayern Munich forward Robert Lewandowski says he envisages finishing his career with the Bavarian club after this summer's talk of a possible transfer for the prolific Pole.

Bayern Munich forward Robert Lewandowski says he envisages finishing his career with the Bavarian club after this summer's talk of a possible transfer for the prolific Pole. "I'm not thinking of changing club. I admit it, this summer it could have been a subject for debate but that's now all finished," Lewandowski said in an interview with German sports daily Bild. "It's very likely that I'll stay here for a long time. I identify totally with Bayern," added the 30-year-old who joined Bayern in 2014 but who was on the radar of both Real Madrid and Chelsea in the summer. Bayern bosses, however, averted a transfer, insisting that last season's top Bundesliga scorer, with 29 goals, was not for sale. "I have the feeling that since all these rumours and problems were buried, I am once again with all my heart with Bayern, at 100 per cent." Lewandowski, however, did urge Bayern to sign up some stars to help their bid for a first Champions League trophy since 2013. The German champions have been linked with a big-money move for French World Cup-winning defender Lucas Hernandez from Atletico Madrid. "It would help us more if one or two world-class players join us rather than five good-level players," he said. Bayern face a tough draw in Champions League last 16, where they will play Premier League leaders Liverpool, away on February 19 and home on March 13.

Robert Lewandowski envisages ending career at Bayern

Five-talking points from the Bundesliga weekend where Borussia Dortmund reached the halfway mark with a six-point lead at the top over Bayern Munich after both teams registered victories.

Gonzalez misses a 10,000 per cent chance for stuttgart

VfB Stuttgart coach Markus Weinzierl was not in the mood to offer any comfort to his young striker Nicolas Gonzalez after the Argentine's astonishing miss early in the second half against Schalke 04, blaming it squarely for their 3-1 defeat.

Schalke was leading 1-0 when goalkeeper Ralf Faehrmann gifted the ball to the 20-year-old Gonzalez who had an open goal at his mercy but sent his shot against the post.

"The turning point was definitely the 47th minute when Nicolas Gonzalez let a 10,000 per cent chance go begging," said Weinzierl.

"We did not accept the gift and that would have been very, very important... at 1-1, we could have turned the game around."

Gonzalez got on the scoresheet later - his first goal since joining Stuttgart from Argentinos Juniors in the summer but by then Schalke was 2-0 ahead.

"The lad is a bit uneasy when he has scoring chances," added Weinzierl whose side are 16th in the 18-team league.

Nagelsmann Frustrated After Hoffenheim Draw Again

Hoffenheim's sixth successive league draw left coach Julian Nagelsmann clearly frustrated as he complained that his team did all the hard work in the 1-1 stalemate against Mainz 05.

"Mainz didn't deserve a point," said the 31-year-old, whose side are seventh with 25 points. "They just played long balls forward and relied on the counter-attack.

"We invested so much and once again, we have run more than our opponents. We must make sure our efforts are rewarded - we have to be more efficient."

Reus firing on all cylinders&nbsp;

Borussia Dortmund captain Marco Reus is finally enjoying an injury-free season, helping his team to the top of the table where they have 42 points and a six-point lead going into the winter break.

Reus has played in all but 37 minutes of Dortmund's 17 games so far, a welcome change for the 29-year-old who has had two long injury layoffs plus a series of nagging muscular injuries over the last five years.

"The most important thing is to be healthy because without it you can't perform," said Reus, who has scored 11 goals and provided six assists.

"It's also just about having a lot of fun. After a lot of bad injuries, it is of course more important to have fun, being on the pitch and taking every opportunity to test your body."

RB Leipzig find a replacement for Naby Keita&nbsp;

Fourth-placed RB Leipzig believe they have found a long-term successor for Naby Keita, the gifted Guinean midfielder who left for Liverpool in the summer.

The club have signed Mali's Amadou Haidara from Austrian champions Salzburg on a five-year deal, although he will not be able to make his debut until March because of a knee injury.

Haidara, 20, helped Salzburg reach the Europa League semi-finals last season and won two successive league titles after joining them from an academy in his homeland in 2016.

He also scored for Salzburg in their 3-2 win over Leipzig when the two met in the Europa League in September.

"There are not many players out there who have his potential," said Leipzig coach Ralf Rangnick. "He has all the prerequisites to succeed Keita."

Ribery finds a new lease of life at Bayern

Bayern Munich winger Franck Ribery has found a new lease of life at the age of 35, scoring a brace in Saturday's 3-0 win at Eintracht Frankfurt to make it four goals in his last three appearances.

"I think it's great when lads like him still have that hunger," said Bayern's chief executive Karl-Heinz Rummenigge said.

"I've always said that there's no such thing as a player who is too old, but rather players who are good or not so good, and he's definitely a very good player."

Five-talking points from the Bundesliga weekend where Borussia Dortmund reached the halfway mark with a six-point lead at the top over Bayern Munich after both teams registered victories.

Five-talking points from the Bundesliga weekend where Borussia Dortmund reached the halfway mark with a six-point lead at the top over Bayern Munich after both teams registered victories. Gonzalez misses a 10,000 per cent chance for stuttgart VfB Stuttgart coach Markus Weinzierl was not in the mood to offer any comfort to his young striker Nicolas Gonzalez after the Argentine's astonishing miss early in the second half against Schalke 04, blaming it squarely for their 3-1 defeat. Schalke was leading 1-0 when goalkeeper Ralf Faehrmann gifted the ball to the 20-year-old Gonzalez who had an open goal at his mercy but sent his shot against the post. "The turning point was definitely the 47th minute when Nicolas Gonzalez let a 10,000 per cent chance go begging," said Weinzierl. "We did not accept the gift and that would have been very, very important... at 1-1, we could have turned the game around." Gonzalez got on the scoresheet later - his first goal since joining Stuttgart from Argentinos Juniors in the summer but by then Schalke was 2-0 ahead. "The lad is a bit uneasy when he has scoring chances," added Weinzierl whose side are 16th in the 18-team league. Nagelsmann Frustrated After Hoffenheim Draw Again Hoffenheim's sixth successive league draw left coach Julian Nagelsmann clearly frustrated as he complained that his team did all the hard work in the 1-1 stalemate against Mainz 05. "Mainz didn't deserve a point," said the 31-year-old, whose side are seventh with 25 points. "They just played long balls forward and relied on the counter-attack. "We invested so much and once again, we have run more than our opponents. We must make sure our efforts are rewarded - we have to be more efficient." Reus firing on all cylinders Borussia Dortmund captain Marco Reus is finally enjoying an injury-free season, helping his team to the top of the table where they have 42 points and a six-point lead going into the winter break. Reus has played in all but 37 minutes of Dortmund's 17 games so far, a welcome change for the 29-year-old who has had two long injury layoffs plus a series of nagging muscular injuries over the last five years. "The most important thing is to be healthy because without it you can't perform," said Reus, who has scored 11 goals and provided six assists. "It's also just about having a lot of fun. After a lot of bad injuries, it is of course more important to have fun, being on the pitch and taking every opportunity to test your body." RB Leipzig find a replacement for Naby Keita Fourth-placed RB Leipzig believe they have found a long-term successor for Naby Keita, the gifted Guinean midfielder who left for Liverpool in the summer. The club have signed Mali's Amadou Haidara from Austrian champions Salzburg on a five-year deal, although he will not be able to make his debut until March because of a knee injury. Haidara, 20, helped Salzburg reach the Europa League semi-finals last season and won two successive league titles after joining them from an academy in his homeland in 2016. He also scored for Salzburg in their 3-2 win over Leipzig when the two met in the Europa League in September. "There are not many players out there who have his potential," said Leipzig coach Ralf Rangnick. "He has all the prerequisites to succeed Keita." Ribery finds a new lease of life at Bayern Bayern Munich winger Franck Ribery has found a new lease of life at the age of 35, scoring a brace in Saturday's 3-0 win at Eintracht Frankfurt to make it four goals in his last three appearances. "I think it's great when lads like him still have that hunger," said Bayern's chief executive Karl-Heinz Rummenigge said. "I've always said that there's no such thing as a player who is too old, but rather players who are good or not so good, and he's definitely a very good player."

Talking points from the Bundesliga weekend

Only a few weeks ago Borussia Dortmund looked unbeatable in the Bundesliga, with champions Bayern Munich languishing in sixth place and seemingly out of title contention.

But with the final matchday of the year ahead of the winter break looming this weekend, rejuvenated Bayern could now move to within three points of the leaders, with a win at Eintracht Frankfurt on Saturday.

The Bavarians, who edged past RB Leipzig 1-0 on Wednesday, have now won their last four league matches, and are level on 33 points with second-placed Borussia Moenchengladbach. Dortmund, who on Tuesday suffered their first league loss of the season, are top on 39.

"We used Dortmund's assist to close in," Bayern coach Niko Kovac told reporters.

"We showed a will to win against Leipzig. Now we must again use all our power on Saturday and get the three points in (Eintracht) Frankfurt," he said of the first league meeting against his former club.

Kovac has every right to be brimming with confidence given he was teetering on the brink of departure earlier this season when Bayern were suffering from a dip in form. 
With Dortmund facing in-form Gladbach on Friday, Bayern can hope to make up further lost ground.

"It is important to use such chances (from Dortmund`s defeat)," said Bayern CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge. "Six points are still a lot but what will be important is the points we may get in Frankfurt."

Kovac has some concerns with wingers Kingsley Coman and Serge Gnabry picking up injuries on Wednesday and injured defender Jerome Boateng still doubtful for Saturday's encounter.

Gnabry had to be taken off with a muscle injury after 28 minutes.&nbsp;

"We will have to see with Serge what the tests show. Hopefully there is nothing damaged in terms of muscle."

Dortmund's shock loss against promoted Fortuna Duesseldorf has rattled the leaders who are also almost out of central defenders for the game against Gladbach. 
Scoring goals has been no problem for Dortmund this season.

But Gladbach are almost equally efficient up front, with the league's second best attack, and Dortmund are missing injured defenders Manuel Akanji, Abdou Diallo and Dan-Axel Zagadou.

Under-23 player Amos Pieper was brought in to train with the team on Wednesday but coach Lucien Favre has not yet decided on his backline.

"He (Pieper) is an option," Dortmund coach Lucien Favre said. "But we are still thinking about all of it. I cannot tell you yet how we will play."

"It was bound to happen," Favre said of the defeat. "It was just a game. We must now be thinking only of Friday now. We hate losing."

Only a few weeks ago Borussia Dortmund looked unbeatable in the Bundesliga, with champions Bayern Munich languishing in sixth place and seemingly out of title contention.

Only a few weeks ago Borussia Dortmund looked unbeatable in the Bundesliga, with champions Bayern Munich languishing in sixth place and seemingly out of title contention. But with the final matchday of the year ahead of the winter break looming this weekend, rejuvenated Bayern could now move to within three points of the leaders, with a win at Eintracht Frankfurt on Saturday. The Bavarians, who edged past RB Leipzig 1-0 on Wednesday, have now won their last four league matches, and are level on 33 points with second-placed Borussia Moenchengladbach. Dortmund, who on Tuesday suffered their first league loss of the season, are top on 39. "We used Dortmund's assist to close in," Bayern coach Niko Kovac told reporters. "We showed a will to win against Leipzig. Now we must again use all our power on Saturday and get the three points in (Eintracht) Frankfurt," he said of the first league meeting against his former club. Kovac has every right to be brimming with confidence given he was teetering on the brink of departure earlier this season when Bayern were suffering from a dip in form. With Dortmund facing in-form Gladbach on Friday, Bayern can hope to make up further lost ground. "It is important to use such chances (from Dortmund`s defeat)," said Bayern CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge. "Six points are still a lot but what will be important is the points we may get in Frankfurt." Kovac has some concerns with wingers Kingsley Coman and Serge Gnabry picking up injuries on Wednesday and injured defender Jerome Boateng still doubtful for Saturday's encounter. Gnabry had to be taken off with a muscle injury after 28 minutes. "We will have to see with Serge what the tests show. Hopefully there is nothing damaged in terms of muscle." Dortmund's shock loss against promoted Fortuna Duesseldorf has rattled the leaders who are also almost out of central defenders for the game against Gladbach. Scoring goals has been no problem for Dortmund this season. But Gladbach are almost equally efficient up front, with the league's second best attack, and Dortmund are missing injured defenders Manuel Akanji, Abdou Diallo and Dan-Axel Zagadou. Under-23 player Amos Pieper was brought in to train with the team on Wednesday but coach Lucien Favre has not yet decided on his backline. "He (Pieper) is an option," Dortmund coach Lucien Favre said. "But we are still thinking about all of it. I cannot tell you yet how we will play." "It was bound to happen," Favre said of the defeat. "It was just a game. We must now be thinking only of Friday now. We hate losing."

Rejuvenated Bayern Munich promise nail-biting yearender

Bayern Munich and Liverpool, both five-times European champions, will meet in the Champions League round of 16 in one of three England-Germany clashes, while Manchester United will face PSG following the draw made at UEFA headquarters on Monday.

English champions Manchester City will take on Schalke 04 and Tottenham Hotspur will face Borussia Dortmund in the other clashes between the Premier League and the Bundesliga.

Meanwhile, holders&nbsp;Real Madrid will face four-times winners Ajax Amsterdam, who have reached the knockout stages for the first since 2005-06.

In other ties, Serie A champions Juventus face Europa League winners Atletico Madrid and Barcelona take on Olympique Lyonnais, while AS Roma face Porto.

Bayern Munich and Liverpool, both five-times European champions, will meet in the Champions League round of 16 in one of three England-Germany clashes, while Manchester United will face PSG following the draw made at UEFA headquarters on Monday.

Bayern Munich and Liverpool, both five-times European champions, will meet in the Champions League round of 16 in one of three England-Germany clashes, while Manchester United will face PSG following the draw made at UEFA headquarters on Monday. English champions Manchester City will take on Schalke 04 and Tottenham Hotspur will face Borussia Dortmund in the other clashes between the Premier League and the Bundesliga. Meanwhile, holders Real Madrid will face four-times winners Ajax Amsterdam, who have reached the knockout stages for the first since 2005-06. In other ties, Serie A champions Juventus face Europa League winners Atletico Madrid and Barcelona take on Olympique Lyonnais, while AS Roma face Porto.

Bayern Munich to face Liverpool, PSG meet Man United

Resurgent Bayern Munich head to Ajax for Wednesday's Champions League group showdown with clear winners and losers among the star-studded squad after Niko Kovac's decision to end rotation.

"We want to keep going," said Leon Goretzka, now a firm fixture in central midfield alongside Joshua Kimmich with Bayern having won their last three games after Saturday's 3-0 league home win over Nuremberg.

"Now we travel to Amsterdam and want to finish first in the group - that's important for us."

Bayern need just a point at Ajax's Johan Cruyff Arena to win Group E with the Bavarian giants currently top of the table, two points ahead of their Dutch rivals, and both teams already into the last 16.

A 5-1 thrashing of Benfica at the Allianz Arena a fortnight ago, with Robert Lewandowski and Arjen Robben both scoring twice, signified an end to the poor results of October and November which also saw Bayern slide down the Bundesliga table.

Bayern have now clawed their way back up to third in the league and coach Kovac has taken a gamble by ditching rotation, risking ruffled egos with stars left on the bench.

"The rhythm is there, the boys are in the flow - that's why we don't want to change anything," explained Kovac.

His decision has significant winners and losers.

World Cup winners - Germany defender Mats Hummels, and Spain midfielder Javi Martinez - languished on the bench against Nuremberg alongside Euro 2016 winner Renato Sanches.

Martinez and Sanches find their path blocked by Kimmich and Goretzka, both 23, who each hit the woodwork against Nuremberg.

"Both have a very good understanding of football and read the game well," said Kovac, at the helm at Bayern since July.

"They get on well off the pitch and are in the national team together.

"It's an axis that's really fun right now - not only for those two, but the whole team in the last three games."

However, Hummels looked like he was having anything but 'fun', storming through the mixed zone after Saturday's win without a word as Jerome Boateng and Niklas Suele are now established as Kovac's centre-backs.

Disgruntled stars watching from Bayern's bench has caused problems for Kovac's predecessors and Robben's imminent return from a thigh injury threatens Serge Gnabry's place on the right wing.

Thiago Alcantara, a second-half replacement on Saturday who is returning to fitness after a knee injury, threatens to break up Kimmich and Goretzka's partnership in central midfield.

However, Kovac's decision has reaped dividends in attack with striker Robert Lewandowski scoring four goals in his last three games, supported by Thomas Mueller who is revelling in the attacking midfield role.

"At the start (of the season), we rotated as the coach tried to find the right team," said the director of sports Hasan Salihamidzic.

"Perhaps it was too much and some players didn't know where they fitted in.

"In the last few games, Niko hasn't done that and the team looks good.

Resurgent Bayern Munich head to Ajax for Wednesday's Champions League group showdown with clear winners and losers among the star-studded squad after Niko Kovac's decision to end rotation.

Resurgent Bayern Munich head to Ajax for Wednesday's Champions League group showdown with clear winners and losers among the star-studded squad after Niko Kovac's decision to end rotation. "We want to keep going," said Leon Goretzka, now a firm fixture in central midfield alongside Joshua Kimmich with Bayern having won their last three games after Saturday's 3-0 league home win over Nuremberg. "Now we travel to Amsterdam and want to finish first in the group - that's important for us." Bayern need just a point at Ajax's Johan Cruyff Arena to win Group E with the Bavarian giants currently top of the table, two points ahead of their Dutch rivals, and both teams already into the last 16. A 5-1 thrashing of Benfica at the Allianz Arena a fortnight ago, with Robert Lewandowski and Arjen Robben both scoring twice, signified an end to the poor results of October and November which also saw Bayern slide down the Bundesliga table. Bayern have now clawed their way back up to third in the league and coach Kovac has taken a gamble by ditching rotation, risking ruffled egos with stars left on the bench. "The rhythm is there, the boys are in the flow - that's why we don't want to change anything," explained Kovac. His decision has significant winners and losers. World Cup winners - Germany defender Mats Hummels, and Spain midfielder Javi Martinez - languished on the bench against Nuremberg alongside Euro 2016 winner Renato Sanches. Martinez and Sanches find their path blocked by Kimmich and Goretzka, both 23, who each hit the woodwork against Nuremberg. "Both have a very good understanding of football and read the game well," said Kovac, at the helm at Bayern since July. "They get on well off the pitch and are in the national team together. "It's an axis that's really fun right now - not only for those two, but the whole team in the last three games." However, Hummels looked like he was having anything but 'fun', storming through the mixed zone after Saturday's win without a word as Jerome Boateng and Niklas Suele are now established as Kovac's centre-backs. Disgruntled stars watching from Bayern's bench has caused problems for Kovac's predecessors and Robben's imminent return from a thigh injury threatens Serge Gnabry's place on the right wing. Thiago Alcantara, a second-half replacement on Saturday who is returning to fitness after a knee injury, threatens to break up Kimmich and Goretzka's partnership in central midfield. However, Kovac's decision has reaped dividends in attack with striker Robert Lewandowski scoring four goals in his last three games, supported by Thomas Mueller who is revelling in the attacking midfield role. "At the start (of the season), we rotated as the coach tried to find the right team," said the director of sports Hasan Salihamidzic. "Perhaps it was too much and some players didn't know where they fitted in. "In the last few games, Niko hasn't done that and the team looks good.

Winners and losers as buoyant Bayern head to Ajax for showdown

Dutch winger Arjen Robben said on Sunday that he will leave Bayern Munich at the end of the season after a decade of success at the German champions.

The 34-year-old joined the Bavarians in 2009 and instantly formed a formidable attacking partnership with Frenchman Franck Ribery, who is also likely to leave at the end of the season.

"I can say that this is my last year (at Bayern) and it is good like that," Robben told reporters after a meeting with fan groups. "I have taken the decision, personally, that this will be my last year.

"I think it is the right moment after 10 years. The club moves on and I may move on. It is the end of a very good and long period."

Robben has scored 98 goals in 198 Bundesliga games for Bayern and, since his arrival in 2009, he has played in three Champions League finals -&nbsp;in 2010, 2012 and 2013 - winning the title at the third attempt with Bayern.

He has also won seven German league titles, including the last six in a row, and four German Cups with the Bavarians.

Robben, who has also won league titles with PSV Eindhoven, Chelsea and Real Madrid and featured in the 2010 World Cup final for the Netherlands, added that he had no plans to retire.

"I may move on. I won't stop completely yet," he said.

Dutch winger Arjen Robben said on Sunday that he will leave Bayern Munich at the end of the season after a decade of success at the German champions. The 34-year-old joined the Bavarians in 2009 and instantly formed a formidable attacking partnership with Frenchman Franck Ribery, who is also likely to leave at the end of the season.

Dutch winger Arjen Robben said on Sunday that he will leave Bayern Munich at the end of the season after a decade of success at the German champions. The 34-year-old joined the Bavarians in 2009 and instantly formed a formidable attacking partnership with Frenchman Franck Ribery, who is also likely to leave at the end of the season. "I can say that this is my last year (at Bayern) and it is good like that," Robben told reporters after a meeting with fan groups. "I have taken the decision, personally, that this will be my last year. "I think it is the right moment after 10 years. The club moves on and I may move on. It is the end of a very good and long period." Robben has scored 98 goals in 198 Bundesliga games for Bayern and, since his arrival in 2009, he has played in three Champions League finals - in 2010, 2012 and 2013 - winning the title at the third attempt with Bayern. He has also won seven German league titles, including the last six in a row, and four German Cups with the Bavarians. Robben, who has also won league titles with PSV Eindhoven, Chelsea and Real Madrid and featured in the 2010 World Cup final for the Netherlands, added that he had no plans to retire. "I may move on. I won't stop completely yet," he said.

Arjen Robben says he will leave Bayern at season's end

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Bayern+Munich">Bayern Munich</a> returns to the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Champions+League">Champions League</a> against <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Benfica">Benfica</a> on November 27 in crisis mode following their latest setback in the Bundesliga.

Talking about the last match of Bayern Munich, team coach&nbsp;Niko Kovac said that he was very disappointed and angry about giving away six points in the last minutes which they needed desperately.

"Of course I was very disappointed, also angry. That is understandable. If you lead all the time against Augsburg, Freiburg and Duesseldorf with all respect but give away everything in the last minutes and give away six points which we are missing desperately. The situation would be completely different now for us," he said.

Bayern, who appeared to be without a serious rival as they clocked up six consecutive Bundesliga titles, are suddenly vulnerable in Niko Kovac's first season in charge.

Kovac has a point to prove when his team hosts Benfica, though a draw will be enough to ensure progress to the next round.

Benfica need to beat Bayern to maintain any hopes of a top-two finish.

Bayern Munich returns to the Champions League against Benfica on November 27 in crisis mode following their latest setback in the Bundesliga. Talking about the last match of Bayern Munich, team coach Niko Kovac said that he was very disappointed and angry about giving away six points in the last minutes which they needed desperately.

Bayern Munich returns to the Champions League against Benfica on November 27 in crisis mode following their latest setback in the Bundesliga. Talking about the last match of Bayern Munich, team coach Niko Kovac said that he was very disappointed and angry about giving away six points in the last minutes which they needed desperately. "Of course I was very disappointed, also angry. That is understandable. If you lead all the time against Augsburg, Freiburg and Duesseldorf with all respect but give away everything in the last minutes and give away six points which we are missing desperately. The situation would be completely different now for us," he said. Bayern, who appeared to be without a serious rival as they clocked up six consecutive Bundesliga titles, are suddenly vulnerable in Niko Kovac's first season in charge. Kovac has a point to prove when his team hosts Benfica, though a draw will be enough to ensure progress to the next round. Benfica need to beat Bayern to maintain any hopes of a top-two finish.

Very disappointed, also angry at Bayern's form, says coach Kovac ahead of Benfica clash

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