bundesliga.com looks at some of the potentially decisive on-field tussles…
Xavi vs. Joshua Kimmich
Xavi has been limited to just 22 Bundesliga appearances this season due to a lengthy injury lay-off, but he remains very much the focal point of the team. With nine league goals and five assists – all but three of which have come in 2025 – he is an ever-present danger in the final third.
Given license to roam in Leipzig’s attack, his movement, dribbling ability and eye for the killer pass can trouble even the meanest of defences – and Bayern’s is just that, with only 29 Bundesliga goals conceded this term. The Dutch youngster enjoys operating in the space behind the main striker, which means he’ll likely lock horns with Kimmich.
