RB Leipzig vs. Bayern Munich

The Bundesliga title race takes center stage on Saturday, January 17, 2026, as RB Leipzig hosts Bayern Munich at the Red Bull Arena.¹ This fixture, a clash between two of Germany's most dominant forces, carries significant weight as the second half of the season kicks off. With only four points separating the top three, this result could define the trajectory of the Meisterschale

Match Information

RB Leipzig Team News and Tactical Outlook

RB Leipzig enters the new year with a point to prove. Under their current tactical setup, the "Die Roten Bullen" have maintained a high-pressing philosophy that has troubled Bayern in recent meetings. Leipzig’s home form remains a cornerstone of their success, having avoided defeat in 85% of their matches at the Red Bull Arena this season.

Injury and Selection Updates:

• Out: Xavi Simons (knee) is a confirmed absentee, leaving a creative void in the midfield. Castello Lukeba is also sidelined with a muscular strain.

• Returns: Benjamin Šeško has returned to full training and is expected to lead the line after a prolific first half of the campaign.

• Key Player: Loïs Openda remains the primary threat, currently sitting in the top five of the Bundesliga scoring charts.

Bayern Munich Team News and Tactical Outlook

Bayern Munich travels to Saxony following a winter break that focused on defensive stabilization. Despite leading the league in goals scored, Bayern has shown vulnerability against quick vertical transitions—a hallmark of Leipzig’s playstyle.

Injury and Selection Updates:

• Unavailable: Jamal Musiala is a major doubt following a knock in training, while Aleksandar Pavlović is ruled out with a recurring ankle issue.

• Transfer News: New January signing Giorgio Scalvini is eligible and could make his debut in the heart of the defense to provide much-needed pace.

• Key Player: Harry Kane continues his record-breaking form, currently leading the European Golden Shoe race.

Predicted Starting Lineups

RB Leipzig (4-2-2-2)

• Goalkeeper: Gulácsi

• Defense: Henrichs, Orbán, Geertruida, Raum

• Midfield: Haidara, Seiwald; Baumgartner, Nusa

• Attack: Šeško, Openda

Bayern Munich (4-2-3-1)

• Goalkeeper: Neuer

• Defense: Kimmich, Kim, Scalvini, Davies

• Midfield: Goretzka, Laimer; Sané, Müller, Olise

• Attack: Kane

Head-to-Head (H2H) and Recent Form

• Last Meeting: The reverse fixture in August 2025 ended in a 2–2 draw at the Allianz Arena.

• Historical Edge: Bayern Munich has won three of the last five Bundesliga encounters, though Leipzig has secured points in two of the last three home games.

• Current Form: Both teams enter the match on four-game unbeaten streaks in domestic competition.

Match Prediction

This fixture traditionally produces goals, with an average of 3.2 goals per game over the last four seasons. While RB Leipzig’s high press will test a transitioning Bayern defense, the visitors' depth and the clinical finishing of Harry Kane often prove the difference in high-pressure away fixtures.

Final Score Prediction: RB Leipzig 2–2 Bayern Munich