Bayern enjoying family festival vibes ahead of Atalanta challenge

by Oliver Trust

BERLIN, March 9 (Xinhua) -- There was little sign of Bayern Munich shifting into Champions League mode ahead of its last-16 clash with Atalanta, with the club's headquarters and training ground bathed in sunshine just hours before departure for Italy.

Leisure time with families and children created a relaxed Sunday afternoon atmosphere, complete with the always-crowded ice cream truck and the juice bar. The "family barbecue" has become a regular feature under coach Vincent Kompany, aimed at building cohesion away from the pitch.

Any sense of urgency was tempered by a run of concerns, including goalkeeper Manuel Neuer's injury, the temporary absence of striker Harry Kane and Jamal Musiala's long road back to top form.

Bayern goes into the tie as the favorite and under pressure to win, but the mood around the club was focused on unity and confidence.

Kompany said he trusts Jonas Urbig to step in for Neuer, confirmed Kane's return and spoke of "special protection" for Musiala.

Neuer is taking his time over his future and could still sign a contract extension, while Urbig has been used in recent league and Champions League matches.

Despite Kane's absence in the most recent league game, Bayern still won, and the England captain's availability for Bergamo remains uncertain.

"If he is around, we are happy; if not, we have to do the job without him," the Bayern coach said.

Musiala has recently made progress and scored his first goal in more than 12 months, converting a penalty.

"The season's crunch time is approaching," the 23-year-old said, adding that it is important to keep stability and stay calm despite the issues.

"I am completely calm about his case. Everyone else, who isn't, I recommend viewing the pictures of his severe injury. It takes time, he is taking the right steps, and he will be at a top level soon," the Bayern coach said.

With an 11-point lead in the league, Bayern's attention is turning to the Champions League and the German Cup, where it meets Leverkusen in the semifinals.

While players have pointed to a similar spirit to 2020, when Bayern won the treble, Musiala underlined the team's determination.

"There is this robust team spirit feeling, but we are fully committed to our sporting goals," he said.

His message was clear: Family barbecues are welcome, as long as results follow. ■