Ottmar Hitzfeld's guide to Der Klassiker
Cologne - With all seven of his Bundesliga title triumphs coming during spells in charge of either FC Bayern München or Borussia Dortmund, Ottmar Hitzfeld is a font of all knowledge when it comes to Der Klassiker.
Speaking to bundesliga.com ahead of the two powerhouses’ Matchday 8 showdown at the Allianz Arena, the retired strategic great explained who he believes shades the standout head-to-heads…
Jerome Boateng vs Mats Hummels
"I'm going for Boateng over Hummels because he’s a little more aggressive, a bit more polished in the air and moves the ball a bit quicker. His build-up play from the back is also fantastic, so that’s why I have to go for Boateng."
Douglas Costa vs Henrikh Mkhitaryan
"Costa versus Mkhitaryan: right now I’m going to say Mkhitaryan because he’s in scintillating form. He’s more dangerous than Costa, he’s more direct and he creates so many scoring chances."
The final verdict
"In the head-to-heads, Bayern are way ahead because they simply have more individual talent and more experience."
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