Why Bayern Munich Need Miralem Pjanic to Shore Up Their Midfield

Central midfield has long been one of Bayern Munich’s greatest strengths.

With players like Bastian Schweinsteiger, Toni Kroos, Thiago Alcantara and recently Arturo Vidal and Xabi Alonso among their ranks, the Bavarians have been the envy of Europe with their class and depth in the center of the park. 

Yet as it stands, Bayern now need to add options to strengthen their midfield in order to stay ahead of the curve.

According to Spox (in German, citing Kicker), Bayern have decided to release Serdar Tasci, Medhi Benatia, Pierre Hojbjerg and Mario Gotze, while Sebastian Rode wishes to leave the club as well. The publication also claimed earlier in May that Thiago’s future is unclear.

Among the aforementioned players, Hojbjerg, Rode and Thiago are all central midfielders. And despite his great performances in 2015-16, fellow central midfielder Xabi Alonso turns 35 this fall and may not be the most reliable player for too much longer.

There are apparently at least two vacancies in the Bayern midfield waiting to be filled, with potentially two more possible.

Happy 26th birthday to Miralem Pjanic!He’s scored more free kicks (8) than any other Serie A player since 2013/14. pic.twitter.com/n5NuauDjLC

— Squawka Football (@Squawka) April 2, 2016

Bayern did well to sign Renato Sanches recently, and the youngster will surely be counted upon despite only turning 19 years of age this August.

Joshua Kimmich, who performed excellently in a variety of positions over the past season, will also provide quality depth in midfield. The 21-year-old seems in effect to be a ready-made replacement for Hojbjerg as the …

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