Bayern Munich: Best XI for 2016-2017 season
Bayern Munich have been European heavyweights as long as one can remember. Their record 4th consecutive Bundesliga title spells their dominance in Germany, warding off the threat from bitter-rivals Borussia Dortmund.
Carlo Ancelotti is now tasked with bringing Champions League glory back to the Allianz Arena since the time they won it with Jupp Heynckes in 2013. The Germans will look to better their semi-final finish last season and aim for European glory.
The shrewd acquisitions of Mats Hummels and Renato Sanches will surely bolster their already powerful squad. Carlo Ancelotti’ best team from his great squad could put any team in Europe to the sword.
Here’s a potential starting XI that could light up any stadium in Europe. Great options all around the pitch with not-so-shabby backups too. It all begins with the world’s best goalkeeper.
Goalkeeper
Manuel Neuer
Manuel Neuer has many qualities that make him an effective player for the team. He has an eye for making quick and accurate ball distributions throughout the pitch which is seen in only world class keepers. His athletic build paired with very quick reflexes thwarts even the best strikers in the world.
The standout quality in Neuer is his decision-making, which is paramount for a goalkeeper. Lightning quick runs to block strikers and sweep stray balls makes him an excellent example of the sweeper-keeper role.
With 20 clean sheets from 38 games in the Bundesliga last season, Neuer is a sturdy last line of defence in an attack-oriented Bayern Munich. Letting in only 16 goals last season in the league shows that scoring goals past him is exceptionally difficult.