Bayern Munich’s star forward Harry Kane has returned to the pitch following a thigh injury, but coach Vincent Kompany confirmed that the England international will not be included in the squad for Saturday’s Bundesliga clash against Mainz.
Kane, who sustained the injury during Bayern’s 1-1 draw against Borussia Dortmund last month, has been seen in training this week, even scoring goals in drills. A video posted by the club on Thursday showed the forward back in action, but Kompany made it clear that Kane’s return to competitive action will not happen just yet.
"Harry Kane will not be available for the Mainz game, nor will other players who are currently recovering from injuries. The squad that faced Shakhtar Donetsk will be the one we have for Mainz," Kompany said on Friday.
Bayern, who are leading the Bundesliga and secured a dominant 5-1 win against Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League on Tuesday, have also been dealing with a series of injuries. Key players such as Joao Palhinha, Alphonso Davies, Serge Gnabry, and goalkeeper Manuel Neuer remain sidelined as the team heads into the weekend fixture with several absences.
The injury concerns have been a topic of discussion for Kompany, who noted that while managing injuries is an ongoing challenge, the squad has so far done a good job in limiting their frequency. "Looking at the injury history of the squad is vital. It’s our responsibility to minimize these injuries. So far, we’ve managed that well, but it’s no surprise that at times we face a higher number of injuries," he stated.
The timing of the injuries, however, comes just as Bayern Munich is approaching the winter break, which Kompany sees as a crucial opportunity for his players to recover. "We’re fortunate that the winter break is near. We won’t have a summer break this year, so having this time to rest both physically and mentally is extremely important," Kompany emphasized.
Looking ahead to their next opponent, Mainz, Kompany was cautious but optimistic. The side from Rhineland-Palatinate were comprehensively beaten 4-0 by Bayern in the German Cup earlier this season, but they have been in good form since then, securing three wins in their last four league matches. Mainz's resurgence has lifted them to ninth place in the Bundesliga standings.
"We have a lot of respect for Mainz. We know there are no easy games in this league," Kompany acknowledged. "It will be a tough match, but we have full confidence in our squad and our ability to deliver."
Despite the injuries and the absence of several key players, Bayern Munich will be hoping to extend their lead at the top of the Bundesliga and head into the winter break on a high note, with the team set to face a determined Mainz side at the weekend.
