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Bayern Munich’s grip on the Bundesliga already looks formidable, and the imminent return of Alphonso Davies threatens to strengthen an already imperious side.
With 13 matches played, Bayern sit eight points clear at the summit, having dropped just two points all season.
The Canadian international made his long-awaited comeback on Tuesday, appearing late on in Bayern’s 3-1 Champions League victory over Sporting Lisbon.
Davies has now been named in the squad for Sunday’s home league fixture against bottom club Mainz and could feature in his first Bundesliga match since suffering a serious ACL injury while on international duty in March.
Given Bayern’s commanding domestic form, head coach Vincent Kompany is under no pressure to rush the 25-year-old back into the starting line-up.
The club’s current momentum allows Davies to be reintegrated gradually as he builds match sharpness.
Davies, who is officially deployed as a wing-back, is renowned for his explosive pace and attacking instincts.
His constant forward runs provide Bayern with an extra threat down the flank, while his recovery speed enables the team to maintain the aggressive high defensive line favoured by Kompany.
Following his return to action, Davies expressed his delight on social media, saying it was good to be back doing what he loves most.
His swift recovery has drawn praise from teammates, with Joshua Kimmich highlighting the defender’s dedication during rehabilitation.
“It was a tough period for him, but he always brought positive energy,” Kimmich said. “The way he handled his rehab was outstanding. He contributes a huge amount, both on and off the pitch.”
Bayern’s injury situation is also easing elsewhere. Jamal Musiala is expected to return in January, potentially featuring in a friendly against Red Bull Salzburg before competitive football resumes.
Meanwhile, long-term absentee Hiroki Ito has also begun clocking up minutes, further boosting squad depth.
With several key players returning, sporting director Max Eberl suggested Bayern are unlikely to be active in the January transfer window.
He indicated the squad’s reinforcements would effectively come from within, describing the returning players as equivalent to new signings.
Mainz, Bayern’s opponents on Sunday, arrive in stark contrast. They sit at the foot of the table with just one win all season and remain five points adrift of safety.
Newly appointed head coach Urs Fischer will take charge of his first league match, hoping to spark a revival.
Fischer earned widespread acclaim during his time at Union Berlin, guiding the club to the Bundesliga and an unexpected Champions League appearance.
His immediate task at Mainz, however, is far more urgent: stabilising a struggling side and lifting them off the bottom of the standings.
