Two European giants face off as Bayern Munich host Manchester United in the Champions League group stage. Both clubs are eager to make a statement after disappointing prior campaigns in Europe.

Bayern have started the 2023-24 season strong under new manager Thomas Tuchel. The addition of Harry Kane has added even more firepower up front alongside speedy wingers Leroy Sane and Serge Gnabry. But United is no pushovers and are rebuilding nicely under Erik ten Hag.

This match will be an excellent barometer for where both powerhouses stand early in the season.

Man United vs Bayern Munich

The match will take place on Wednesday, September 20th, 2023, at Allianz Arena, in Munich, Bavaria, Germany.

What is Ten Hag Cooking?

After a disappointing 2021-22 campaign, there was a feeling of cautious optimism surrounding Old Trafford as Erik ten Hag arrived as manager ahead of the 2023-24 season. There seemed to be a renewed energy and focus as Ten Hag looked to implement his playing philosophy and get United back to challenging for trophies.

The opening few games were a bit shaky as United tried to adjust to Ten Hag's high-pressing, possession-based style. There were some hiccups that showed the players were still getting up to match speed both physically and tactically.

Rashford Rises to the Occasion

Rashford actually endured a bit of a slow start to the season as he tried to re-find his best role in Ten Hag's system. Rashford credits Ten Hag for believing in him and giving him a consistent role.

In general, United has seemed to grow into the season as the players get more comfortable with Ten Hag's tactics. There's more fluidity to their passing, the high press causes more turnovers, and chances are being created from open play rather than just counters.

Casemiro Stands as Tank

Summer signing Casemiro has been huge in central midfield, breaking up play and keeping possession moving. His experience gives the midfield some real steel. And Raphael Varane seems rejuvenated at center-back alongside Lisandro Martinez, who is a bulldog in defense.

There's been some bumps along the way as United still try to find complete consistency. They exposed some familiar problems defending quick, organized attacks.

Is it About Time?

Are United back to title challengers in the Champions League? Probably not. There still seems to be a talent deficit compared to Manchester City or Liverpool. But with smart January reinforcements, reaching the top four and winning a domestic cup are realistic goals in Ten Hag's debut season.

The biggest positives so far are the style of play and the mentality Ten Hag has instilled. With Rashford's resurgence and Ten Hag's tactical acumen, there are finally reasons for optimism around Manchester United.

What to expect?

This season already seems a turning point where United are laying the groundwork to eventually get back to England's elite tier. If Ten Hag is supported with more transfer windows to mold the squad, United may just be getting started on returning to glory. There will be more growing pains but the project seems firmly headed in the right direction under their impressive new manager.

Bayern Start Strong As Usual

The 2023-24 season has ushered in a new era at Bayern Munich with Thomas Tuchel taking over as manager. Bayern looks rejuvenated and is playing with energy in the opening months of the campaign.

The Tuchel Ball on Display

One of Tuchel's first initiatives was increasing the intensity and duration of training sessions. This is part of his meticulous, detail-oriented coaching style. The players have spoken about how Tuchel reviews every aspect of their performances in depth on the training ground. 

There is now a clear emphasis on playing quick, flowing attacking football in training. This increased work rate is already translating to improved conditioning and sharpness in matches.

Harry Kane- The Perfect Goal Poacher

Several key players have stepped up in the early going this season for Bayern. Striker Harry Kane, acquired from Tottenham this summer, has instantly delivered goals. His intelligent link-up play with wingers like Leroy Sane and Serge Gnabry has been excellent. 

In midfield, Joshua Kimmich and Leon Goretzka have controlled matches with their physicality and distribution. Sane looks revitalized on the left wing, scoring dazzling individual goals.

Optimist for New Season

While it is still very early in the long campaign, there are tangible reasons for optimism around Bayern Munich this season. The attacking talent on the squad is undeniable, and Tuchel has them playing attractive, often thrilling football. Bayern have shown they can grind out gritty wins as well. The players seem to be buying into Tuchel's philosophy. With smart January reinforcements, Bayern could make a deep Champions League run and seriously challenge domestically.

Cautious Excitement Around Allianz Arena

In conclusion, while it is early and Bayern has room for improvement, there is genuine excitement around the club this season. The attacking talent Tuchel has assembled looks potent and multifaceted. Bayern have the mentality of champions and expectations remain justifiably high. Provided the transition process continues smoothly, Bayern has the pieces to achieve something special both domestically and in Europe.

Predicted Lineups

Bayern Munich: Sven Ulreich, Alphonso Davies, Min-jae Kim, Matthijs de Ligt, Noussair Mazraoui, Joshua Kimmich, Leon Goretzka, Kingsley Coman, Serge Gnabry, Kingsley Coman, Harry Kane

Man United: André Onana, Diogo Dalot, Lisandro Martinez, Victor Lindelof, Aron Wan-Bissaka, Sofyan Amrabat, Casemiro, Marcus Rashford, Bruno Fernandes, Facundo Pellistri, Rasmus Hojlund

Key Battles

• Casemiro vs Kimmich

The central midfield clash between Bayern's Joshua Kimmich and United's Casemiro could decide who controls the game. Both are aggressive ball-winners who can dictate play. On the wings, the pace of Leroy Sane and Marcus Rashford could be electric.