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Defenders
One of the fixtures of this Bayern side, since he came to prominence under Pep Guardiola, has been Joshua Kimmich. Touted as Philipp Lahm's heir, he's lived up to the expectation so far, featuring heavily in this aging team. Kimmich will be one of the first names on the teamsheet for Kovac, providing dynamism and real quality delivery from the wings from his right-back position.
Alaba on the left will also resume his duties, as usual, barring any injury flare-ups. The Austrian has cemented his place in the side, now as a senior figure rather than a promising youngster.
The centre-back pairing is most likely going to be one of the new signings Lucas Hernandez or Benjamin Pavard alongside Niklas Sule. Both Hernandez and Pavard are capable of filling in at centre-back or full-back and would be a great starting combination for Kovac's side, but indications are that Sule remains firmly in his plans, although, Jerome Boateng may have a reduced role this season.
In signing two World Cup-winning full-backs (who also operate as centre-backs), Bayern have given themselves options and security at the back. It allows them to experiment with Alaba and Kimmich in midfield as they have previously done while keeping the integrity if their defensive unit.
