“If Bayern plays to their potential, they’ll likely secure a victory against Manchester United,” stated Hargreaves in a recent interview on the Bayern website.
“Bayern is unquestionably strong at home, especially with the addition of Harry Kane. However, Manchester United possesses a quality attack that shouldn’t be underestimated. Marcus Rashford’s prowess in counter-attack situations and Bruno Fernandes’ ability to deliver incisive passes behind the defense make United a formidable opponent. Nonetheless, assuming Bayern performs at their usual level, I expect them to come out on top at home.”
The draw has placed both Bayern and Manchester United in Group A of the Champions League, alongside Copenhagen and Galatasaray—two opponents who, while not exceptionally strong, bring an element of unpredictability to the table. The last official encounter between Bayern and Manchester United occurred in the 2014 Champions League quarterfinals, with Bayern securing a 4-2 victory, highlighted by Arjen Robben’s stunning volley.
However, the most unforgettable clash remains the 1998-1999 Champions League final at Camp Nou, where Bayern took an early lead but ultimately lost 1-2 in extra time to goals from Teddy Sheringham and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
For the upcoming match at Allianz Stadium, Bayern will be without the guidance of Thomas Tuchel due to a suspension stemming from the previous season. Tuchel’s ban resulted from an incident in Bayern’s Champions League quarterfinal second-leg match against Manchester City, in which he was sent off in April.
Nonetheless, Hargreaves maintains that Bayern holds the upper hand and anticipates the “Gray Tigers” extending their winning streak in Champions League opening rounds to 20 matches. Hargreaves, the former midfielder who spent a substantial part of his career at Bayern, expressed, “Securing victory in the first Champions League match is undeniably crucial, particularly when playing at home. Bayern has set exceptionally high standards and aims to win every match. Last season, Bayern delivered impressive results in the group stage.”
Hargreaves, who joined Bayern’s youth academy in 1997 and played for the first team from 2000 to 2007, winning numerous titles, believes that Bayern’s current form is superior. The club remains undefeated in the Bundesliga with three wins and a draw, while Manchester United has suffered three losses in the Premier League’s initial five rounds and currently occupies the 13th position. Despite this, the renowned British player foresees both historic clubs advancing to the Round of 16, with Bayern leading the group, followed by Manchester United, Galatasaray, and Copenhagen, respectively.