Munich (dpa/lby) – The footballers of FC Bayern München are set to kick off the new year with their first team training on January 3rd, following a short twelve-day break. The undefeated autumn champions will play their dress rehearsal for the competitive season start on January 6th at 3:00 PM. The Munich team will then visit 17-time Austrian champions FC Red Bull Salzburg for a friendly match.
First Bundesliga Match of 2026
Coach Vincent Kompany’s team will play their first competitive match of the new year on January 11th at 5:30 PM, at home in the Bundesliga against VfL Wolfsburg.
Jamal Musiala’s Return to Action
In the new year, the Belgian coach also plans to rely on national player Jamal Musiala under competitive conditions once again. The 22-year-old had suffered a broken fibula and an ankle injury during the Club World Cup in the summer. Musiala is now participating in parts of the training sessions.
Season Preparations and Expectations
After a successful autumn season, where the team remained undefeated, expectations are high for the upcoming year. The early start to training and the friendly match against a strong opponent like Red Bull Salzburg underscore the club’s commitment to maintaining their top form. The return of key players like Musiala is expected to further strengthen the squad as they aim to continue their dominance in the Bundesliga and compete strongly in other competitions.
The club’s management has expressed confidence in Coach Kompany’s strategy for the new year, emphasizing the importance of a strong start to build momentum for the rest of the season. Fans are eagerly awaiting the return of the team to the pitch, especially with the prospect of seeing Musiala back in full action.
The training sessions leading up to the first competitive match will be crucial for integrating Musiala back into the team and fine-tuning strategies for the challenges ahead. The friendly match against FC Red Bull Salzburg will provide an excellent opportunity to test these strategies and assess the team’s readiness.
The club has also hinted at potential tactical adjustments and player rotations to manage the demanding schedule of domestic and international competitions. The focus remains on player fitness and preventing further injuries, especially for those returning from long layoffs.
Local media and sports analysts are closely watching FC Bayern’s preparations, with many predicting another strong performance from the team in 2026. The blend of experienced players and emerging talents, combined with Kompany’s coaching philosophy, positions Bayern as a formidable force in European football.
The upcoming matches are not just about securing points but also about showcasing the team’s resilience and depth. The coaching staff is reportedly working on various scenarios to ensure the team is prepared for any eventuality, from challenging league encounters to high-stakes cup competitions.
The atmosphere within the team is described as positive and focused, with players eager to return to competitive play. The short winter break has allowed for physical and mental recuperation, setting the stage for an intense and exciting second half of the season.
The club’s fan base is also mobilized, with tickets for the upcoming home match against VfL Wolfsburg selling rapidly. The support of the fans is considered a vital component of the team’s success, especially in crucial home games.
The management has also reiterated its commitment to youth development and integrating promising young players into the first team squad, ensuring a sustainable future for the club. This approach is expected to provide both immediate depth and long-term talent for FC Bayern.
Source: https://www.traunsteiner-tagblatt.de/sport/fussball-mix_artikel,-das-plant-der-fc-bayern-zum-jahresstart-_arid,973098.html
