FC Bayern vs. Mainz 05 preview: Mainz seek fresh start under Fischer against dominant Bavarians

Bayern Munich return to Bundesliga action this weekend with a home clash against struggling Mainz, a fixture that on paper looks routine for the German record champions, but one that still carries several intriguing storylines.

Bayern boosted by Davies return

One of the main positives for Bayern in midweek was the return of Alphonso Davies to the matchday squad in the Champions League against Sporting Lisbon. The Canadian had been sidelined for months and while his minutes were carefully managed, his presence alone was a welcome sight for all Bayern supporters. Davies’ pace and directness add a different dynamic to Bayern’s left flank.

Bayern’s overall form remains strong, particularly at the Allianz Arena, where their attacking depth and intensity often overwhelm opponents early. With multiple options in forward areas, aside from Luis Díaz's suspension (five yellow cards), and increasing defensive stability, Bayern will be expected to dictate the tempo and create a high volume of chances against a Mainz side low on confidence.

Mainz mired in a disappointing Bundesliga season

For Mainz, the situation could hardly be more different. Their Bundesliga campaign so far has been nothing short of disastrous, with a lack of goals, defensive fragility and a visible erosion of belief leaving them anchored at the bottom of the table. Performances have often been reactive rather than proactive, and points have been hard to come by, especially away from home.

Matches against Bayern are rarely forgiving, and given Mainz’s struggles against teams that dominate possession, the challenge could be severe. Limiting damage and staying compact will be the priority, but Mainz’s season to date suggests that even maintaining concentration for 90 minutes has proven difficult. However, there whole momentum could change thanks to one man:

A new era under Urs Fischer begins

This match marks Urs Fischer’s first Bundesliga game in charge of Mainz, following his appointment earlier this week. The former Union Berlin coach already took charge of his first match in midweek, overseeing a draw against Lech Poznań in the Conference League, a result that at least provided some early stability - but Mainz didn't have too many problems internationally anyway, they are struggling far more when it comes to the Bundesliga.

Fischer is known for his pragmatic approach, defensive organisation and ability to extract maximum output from limited resources. However, inheriting a Mainz side in such poor league form and being thrown straight into an away match against Bayern is far from ideal. Any immediate tactical overhaul is unlikely, but signs of improved structure and discipline would be a positive first step, even if the result ultimately goes against them.

Squad News:

As mentioned earlier, Bayern are welcoming Alphonso Davies back to Bundesliga football - the only longterm injured player still missing is their new number 10, Jamal Musiala. Aside from that, it looks like Sacha Boey will miss this match due to a minor injury, while some players might get a break as it's the table leader against last place. Luis Díaz is suspended for this match.

Mainz on the other hand will be missing Caci, Dal, Mwene, Widmer and Zentner, all due to various injuries, and Nebel+Kohr due to suspensions.

Outlook:

Bayern enter the match as overwhelming favourites, with squad depth, quality and home advantage firmly on their side. Mainz, meanwhile, will hope that the change on the touchline can spark a reaction, even if expectations are understandably low. For Fischer, this game is less about points and more about laying foundations - while Bayern will simply look to get the job done and keep their momentum rolling.

Predicted lineups:

FC Bayern (4-2-3-1):

Neuer - Laimer, Upamecano, Tah, Bischof - Kimmich, Goretzka - Olise, Karl, Gnabry - Kane

Mainz 05 (3-5-2):

Batz - Da Costa, Hanche-Olsen, Leitsch - Kawasaki, Sano, Amiri, Lee, Veratschnig - Hollerbach, Weiper