In a significant blow for FC Bayern Munich, the club has confirmed that both Alphonso Davies and Dayot Upamecano will be sidelined for extended periods due to injuries sustained during the recent international break. The news comes as the team gears up for crucial matches in both the Bundesliga and the UEFA Champions League.
Alphonso Davies, the talented left-back for Bayern and the Canadian national team, suffered a torn cruciate ligament in his right knee during Canada’s 2-1 victory over the United States on March 23, 2025. The injury occurred just twelve minutes into the match, forcing him to leave the field early. Following the diagnosis, Davies is scheduled to undergo surgery today, March 26, and will be out for several months, potentially sidelining him for the remainder of the season.
Max Eberl, the sporting director of FC Bayern, expressed his dismay at the injuries, stating, "At international breaks, there is always the risk that players return injured – this time we have been particularly hard hit. The absences of Alphonso Davies and Dayot Upamecano weigh heavily for FC Bayern." Eberl assured fans that both players would receive the necessary support during their recovery periods.
Dayot Upamecano, Bayern’s central defender, has also been diagnosed with an injury. He has loose joint bodies in his left knee, which will keep him out of action for several weeks. Reports indicate that Upamecano is expected to miss around six weeks, which is a significant setback for the team as they approach the final stretch of the season.
Upamecano played a crucial role in securing France's qualification for the Final Four of the UEFA Nations League, scoring the decisive penalty in a tense 5-4 shootout victory against Croatia in Paris. However, his recent success has been overshadowed by this injury, which leaves Bayern without two of their key defensive players.
In light of these injuries, Bayern’s defensive lineup is in a precarious position. Eberl noted, "Our squad is strong and will cope with these absences. We will now come even closer together. The quality is there to continue pursuing our great goals." This statement reflects the club’s determination to maintain their competitive edge despite the setbacks.
The timing of these injuries is particularly unfortunate for Bayern, as they are gearing up for critical matches, including a quarter-final clash against Inter Milan in the Champions League on April 8 and April 16. Additionally, the team will face FC St. Pauli in the Bundesliga on March 29, where they aim to preserve their six-point lead over Bayer Leverkusen.
Davies has been a vital asset for Bayern this season, contributing significantly in both league and European competitions. He has made 19 league appearances and nine in the Champions League, showcasing his importance to the team. His absence will not only affect Bayern’s defensive capabilities but also their attacking strategies, as Davies is known for his speed and ability to recover the ball in dangerous situations.
As for Upamecano, his leadership in the backline has been crucial, particularly in high-stakes matches. The team will be looking to other players, such as Eric Dier, who has proven to be a reliable alternative in defense, to step up in their absence. Dier’s solid and composed style of play could help stabilize the defense during this challenging period.
The injuries to both players highlight the physical toll of international breaks on athletes, a concern that has been echoed by coaches and sporting directors across the football world. Eberl's comments underline the need for clubs to manage player workloads carefully, especially during crucial phases of the season.
Despite the challenges ahead, Bayern Munich remains committed to their objectives. With a strong squad depth and a history of overcoming adversity, the club is determined to continue their pursuit of domestic and European glory. As they prepare for the upcoming fixtures, the focus will be on rallying together and ensuring that they can remain competitive in both competitions.
Fans will undoubtedly be hoping for a swift recovery for Davies and Upamecano, as their contributions will be missed on the pitch. In the meantime, Bayern will need to adapt and find ways to maintain their winning momentum as they face the challenges that lie ahead.
