Bayern Munich confirm full competitive intent for Heidenheim clash ahead of PSG semi-final
Vincent Kompany has ruled out resting the squad for the final Bundesliga fixture against Heidenheim, citing the need to maintain momentum before the Champions League semi-final second leg against Paris Saint Germain.
Bayern Munich head coach Vincent Kompany has confirmed that the team will treat their upcoming Bundesliga match against bottom-placed Heidenheim with full seriousness. This assurance comes despite the squad having already secured the league title and facing an immediate return to European competition. Kompany emphasised that the players would not hand Heidenheim a "gift" following their championship victory, a stance he argued was necessary to maintain professional standards.
The German giants host the European champions, Paris Saint Germain, in the second leg of their Champions League semi-final on Wednesday. Following a 5-4 aggregate loss after a dramatic first leg in Paris, Bayern must overturn this deficit to advance to the final. Kompany noted that the intensity of the upcoming PSG tie is high in Munich, yet he insisted his daily focus remains on the domestic fixture against Heidenheim to ensure the team is ready.
Kompany referenced the team's recent comeback victory against Mainz as proof of their competitive mentality. He stated that this performance demonstrated the squad's ability to perform under pressure even after the league title was wrapped up. The coach pointed out that similar concerns were raised last season regarding focus after securing the title, but he believes the current squad has done its job while refusing to offer opponents any leniency.
Regarding the team sheet, reserve goalkeeper Jonas Urbig is set to start in goal for the match against Heidenheim. This decision coincides with ongoing discussions between the club and 40-year-old Manuel Neuer regarding a one-year contract extension. Meanwhile, utility player Tom Bischof has been confirmed fit to face Heidenheim after recovering from injury, and defender Alphonso Davies has returned to normal training routines.
Winger Lennart Karl remains unavailable for the Heidenheim match, though his status is being managed cautiously by the coaching staff. While there is a possibility he may be available for the PSG tie, the club is proceeding with care regarding his situation. The outcome of the match against Heidenheim carries significant implications for the strugglers, who face immediate relegation if they lose and St Pauli defeat Mainz in their upcoming fixture.
