Borussia Dortmund vs Bayern Munich: Combined XI of Der Klassiker

Defensive midfielder: Alex Witsel

Witsel has announced a sensational return to Europe in Dortmund colours

Following an indifferent spell in China with Tianjin Quanjin, Witsel quietly returned to Europe this summer and just three months into the new campaign, has established himself in Favre's Dortmund set-up.

He's forged a solid pairing with Thomas Delaney at the base of the midfield and also proved to be an excellent protective cover for the back four. The Belgian also boasts a 92% pass success rate. He's the battering ram that will be tasked with the undoing of the visitors.

Right winger: Arjen Robben

Age is no bar for the mighty Robben

In just over two months from now, Robben would be 35. But its a testament to his longevity and durability that he continues to be an important cog in Bayern's wheel. The Dutchman has scored thrice and having been sent off against Wolfsburg, is set to return to the fold at the weekend.

He's had tremendous success over Dortmund over the years, and with 11 goals and five assists in 19 Klassikers, they are his favourite opponent.

Attacking midfielder: Marco Reus

Reus continues to go from strength to strength each season

With James Rodriguez yet to hit the heights of last season, Reus finds himself in the Colombian's shoes of 2017/18, having started off to a flyer with six goals and five assists in only 10 games. The Dortmund skipper has taken to his new responsibilities with aplomb and also maintained a clean bill of health so far.

He's a Klassiker veteran, having played in 17 fixtures since 2012 and also scoring five times. Reus would have to muster every ounce of his experience and recent vein of form to have an impact in his first league meeting with Bayern since 2016.

Left winger: Jadon Sancho

Jadon Sancho - England's next big thing?

Paco Alcacer isn't the only Dortmund player scripting a fascinating story, for Jadon Sancho has been making waves all across. The 18-year old Englishman has assisted six times - the highest in the division - to become a creative inspiration for his team, whilst also striking four times in the process.

His precocious talent also earned him his first England call-up last month, and could be a catalyst in Dortmund's victory on Saturday.