Sat Feb 14 15:00:00 UTC 2026: ### Bayern Rotates Squad Against Bremen Despite Upamecano Extension
The Story:
FC Bayern Munich, managed by Vincent Kompany, is set to face Werder Bremen, aiming to restore their six-point lead over Borussia Dortmund after Dortmund’s Friday night victory. Despite recently extending his contract, Dayot Upamecano surprisingly finds himself on the bench. Kompany has made four changes to the starting lineup compared to their DFB-Pokal victory against Leipzig. Konrad Laimer, Minjae Kim, Leon Goretzka, and Lennart Karl are included in the starting eleven. Alphonso Davies and Aleks Pavlovic also join Upamecano on the bench, while Michael Olise is absent due to a yellow card suspension.
Key Points:
- Dayot Upamecano, despite a recent contract extension, starts on the bench.
- Vincent Kompany makes four changes to the starting lineup.
- Konrad Laimer, Minjae Kim, Leon Goretzka, and Lennart Karl are new to the starting XI.
- Alphonso Davies, Aleks Pavlovic, and Dayot Upamecano are on the bench.
- Michael Olise is suspended due to accumulated yellow cards.
- Raphael Guerreiro is absent due to minor muscular issues.
- Leon Goretzka makes his first start in three competitive matches.
- Bayern’s lineup: Neuer – Laimer, Minjae, Tah, Stanisic – Goretzka, Kimmich – Karl, Gnabry, Diaz – Kane.
Key Takeaways:
- Kompany appears to be prioritizing squad rotation, even after a significant victory.
- Upamecano’s benching raises questions about his immediate future role within the team, despite the contract extension.
- Olise’s suspension presents an opportunity for other players to step up in the attacking lineup.
- Goretzka’s return to the starting lineup could signify a change in Kompany’s midfield strategy.
- Kane’s presence remains crucial for Bayern’s offensive strength, as highlighted by his earlier goals against Bremen (Feb 14, 2026).
First Piper 