Julian Nagelsmann defends Dayot Upamecano's performance against Gladbach
Dayot Upamecano has been defended by Julian Nagelsmann following Bayern's 1-1 draw with Gladbach.
Bayern München coach Julian Nagelsmann has defended Dayot Upamecano after the centre-back received criticism for his performance in Friday's 1-1 draw with Borussia Mönchengladbach.
Upamecano made his first competitive appearance for Bayern after his summer move from RB Leipzig, playing the full game against Gladbach.
In the wake of the game, Upamecano has been singled out for criticism by pundits and fans, but Nagelsmann has now offered words of support for his defender.
"I don't think the discussion about his performance is justified," said Nagelsmann ahead of Bayern's Super Cup clash with Borussia Dortmund on Tuesday.
"I didn't think he was the worst player in the team, that's for sure. He's a young player, who needs a bit of time to settle in, and who was a bit nervous before his first game.
"He's already played so many Bundesliga games that you think he's 28, but he's not. He's still a young player, who needs to get to know his new teammates."
Against Borussia Dortmund, Upamecano and the rest of Bayern's defense will face the difficult task of stopping Erling Haaland, who has scored five goals and made three assists in his first two games of the season.
"He is an outstanding player. Everyone knows that when you look at his goal involvement. What he brings to the pitch for Dortmund is extraordinary," said Nagelsmann.
"We have to make sure that he doesn't get too much space to run in behind. As a centre-back, you have to be wary of the pressure on the ball, but also keep him under control physically because he's very strong and incredibly fast."