No quick fix, says Heynckes

– Bayern Munich will play their first game under returning coach Jupp Heynckes (above) when they host Freiburg today.

The 72-year-old, who won the treble with the club in 2013, is tasked with reviving Bayern’s stuttering season after his predecessor Carlo Ancelotti was dismissed two weeks ago.

Bayern are five points behind leaders Borussia Dortmund in the Bundesliga table, and have won just two of their last five league fixtures.

Today’s game against Freiburg is a must-win for the champions, as they look to start afresh under Heynckes.

Heynckes begins his fourth spell in charge warning that there may not be an overnight fix to their problems.

“I have analysed the team’s current condition,” said Heynckes at his presentation earlier this week. “It’s a difficult situation.”

Bayern are still without first choice goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, and Franck Ribery is also out of action having picked up a knee injury against Hertha Berlin.

Nonetheless, Bayern’s record against Saturday’s opponents is reason for optimism. They have never lost at home to Freiburg, and have won all of their last 13 home games against them.

League leaders Borussia Dortmund will be looking to extend their unbeaten streak as they host RB Leipzig.

Dortmund are yet to lose this season, and seem to be the team to beat in the title race.

There are, however, defensive concerns for Peter Bosz’s side, with Raphael Guerreiro, Marcel Schmelzer, Erik Durm and Lukasz Piszczek all injured. – AFP

Berlin