Bild gives Guardiola 5 pointers
The German daily newspaper has drawn up a list of demands for the Bayern manager following the Juventus clash. Thiago needs to play more often and Xabi Alonso less so.
Bayern Munich progressed to the quarter-finals of the Champions League by the skin of their teeth thanks to a thrilling comeback against Juventus. The Serie A champions had managed to outclass their hosts from a tactical viewpoint for most of the second leg.
Pep Guardiola’s men levelled the tie at the death through Thomas Müller and finished off the job in extra time thanks to Thiago and Coman. Nonetheless, the daily newspaper Bild still saw fit to give the former Barca boss a few pointers. Relations between the German press and the Catalan coach have been turning sore since the latter’s imminent move to Manchester City was announced.
1. Don’t get caught out tactically. As was the case in 2014 when the Bavarians faced Real Madrid, Guardiola did not take Juventus’ tactics into account. The Old Lady heaped loads of pressure on their hosts at the start of the game to make it 0-1.
2. Thiago should start. Despite the Spaniard being in great form, he was left out of the starting line-up and Bayern lacked creative edge without him. It’s clear as day that Vidal is a stronger candidate for the holding midfielder role than an increasingly torpid Xabi Alonso.
3. Benatia should never be played in defence. Ever.
4. React quicker. Guardiola made his first change in the 60th minute by bringing on Coman and then waited until the 110th minute to give Thiago a run out. Pep stuck to his guns for a long time even though his team were losing.
5. The team should be more responsible. Guardiola is known for doing things his way, but Wednesday night’s showing was far from your typical Pep style performance.
Bild reckon that by taking this advice on board, the 45-year-old should have no problem scooping