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3 players who could replace Arjen Robben

3 players who could replace Arjen Robben
3 players who could replace Arjen Robben

Bayern Munich's legendary Dutch forward, Arjen Robben, announced he would leave at the end of the current season. The Dutchman said, "I can say that this is my last year and it is good like that," (BBC). With Robben, 35, this will hardly have come as a surprise to Bayern. They will have been scouting his replacement for a while, and that's just as well, because he certainly won't be easy to replace.

Robben has scored 143 goals in 305 appearances, over 10 seasons in Bavaria. In that time he has won 7 Bundesliga titles, 4 DFB-Pokals, 5 DFL-Supercups and 1 UEFA Champions League, in which he scored the all-important winner in the final, as reported by ESPN Soccer. It will be almost impossible to find an exact like for like player, especially of the same calibre as Robben, but a wide forward who likes to cut in and has a good eye for goal will be the minimum criteria.

#1- Malcom

FC Barcelona v Real Madrid - Copa del Rey Semi Final
FC Barcelona v Real Madrid - Copa del Rey Semi Final

Malcom's struggles, at Barcelona, present an interesting opportunity for Bayern. Malcom has barely featured at Barca this season, but this is due more to Barca's strength up front, rather than a lack of ability. It was always going to be difficult for Malcom, with Messi, Dembélé and Coutinho all operating in similar roles. Even with his limited playing opportunities, Malcom has shown quality, scoring a great goal against Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey.

Malcom had a very impressive final season at Bordeaux, scoring 12 league goals from the right wing (eurosport). The majority of these, powerful left-footed efforts. Malcom has already scored a number of long range left-footed shots, similar to the trademark finishes that have brought Robben so much fame.

Malcom had his choice of clubs last summer, eventually choosing Barcelona, having initially agreed to join Roma. He now, likely, regrets this decision, having only made 7 league appearances. With the Brazilian probably desperate to leave in the summer, Bayern could look for a cut-price move, turning Barca's loss into their gain.

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