Will Sadio Mane be available for Bayern Munich vs Man City? Thomas Tuchel provides definitive update
Thomas Tuchel has confirmed Sadio Mane's availability for Bayern Munich's UEFA Champions League quarterfinal second leg on Wednesday (April 19).
The Senegal international was banned for one game after punching teammate Leroy Sane in the face following his team's 3-0 first-leg loss against the Cityzens on Tuesday (April 11). Mane, as a result, was not named in Bayern's matchday squad in their 1-1 Bundesliga draw against TSG Hoffenheim on Saturday (April 15).
However, Tuchel has confirmed that the former Liverpool winger will not be punished further and will be available to feature against his former club at the Allianz Arena (h/t the Athletic):
"Sadio Mane will be in the squad on Wednesday. He has already shown his reaction. It’s over; he’s apologised. It’s not an issue anymore. He trained with us in the week, and he’ll be in training tomorrow (Sunday)."
Mane has been lambasted for his performances this season despite amassing 11 goals and five assists in 32 games across competitions. Bayern fans will undoubtedly be willing to overlook his recent slump if he plays a role in beating Manchester City.
However, Bayern will need to beat the Sky Blues by three goals. No team has achieved that feat since Leicester City's 5-2 Premier League win in September 2020.
Bayern Munich handed Bundesliga lifeline by Borussia Dortmund
Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund kicked off at the same time on Saturday. The Bavarians' 1-1 draw would have been a golden chance for the Black and Yellow to move level with Bayern after 28 games
However, Dortmund squandered two points courtesy of Silas Katompa Mvumpa's equaliser in the seventh minute of stoppage time. The game ended 3-3 at the Mercedes-Benz Arena, ensuring Bayern ended gameweek 28 with a two-point lead atop the standings.
That's a huge psychological advantange ahead of a key clash against Manchester City in midweek. Thomas Tuchel was, nevertheless, disappointed with his team's draw against Hoffenheim.
The German tactician said after the game at the Allianz Arena, via @iMiaSanMia on Twitter (h/t Bavarian Football Works):
"I thought we were prepared and would play with rage. That was not the case, that was bad - too slow, too emotionless. We’re lacking the sense of being fired up. We need another spirit quickly."
Bayern Munich took the lead through Benjamin Pavard in the 17th minute. Hoffenheim, though, pulled level with 71 minutes on the clock through Andrej Kramaic with their only shot on target, compared to the hosts' eight.