Bayern confirm Stanisic to miss start of Bundesliga season after knee surgery

Bayern Munich have suffered an injury blow before the start of the new season, with Josip Stanisic set to be out for several weeks.

Josip Stanisic will miss the start of Bayern Munich’s Bundesliga campaign after undergoing knee surgery.

The defender, who has returned to the club after a successful loan spell with Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen, tore a collateral ligament in his right knee during training on Monday.

Stanisic, who started Bayern’s 4-0 victory over Ulm in the DFB-Pokal last Friday, is set to be out for several weeks, according to a statement released by the club.

The Croatia international won the league and DFB-Pokal last season, making 20 appearances in the Bundesliga for Leverkusen during their unbeaten domestic run.

Sacha Boey could replace him whilst Joshua Kimmich and Konrad Laimer are also options to operate in that role.

Leroy Sane was able to complete parts of the team training session on Monday.The winger took part in the warm up and some exercises with his team mates before continuing his individual recovery programme.

Sane had to have an operation on his groin following Euro 2024 and now continues to work on his return to action.

As for outgoings, Bayern Munich midfielder Leon Goretzka will continue to fight to stay at the club despite the increased pressure for him to leave. 

The 29-year-old relies on the words of honorary club president Uli Hoeneß, who backs Goretzka to stay at the club despite the pressure from others.

Goretzka has been linked with a move to the USA recently, but playing in the MLS does not appeal to him at this stage of his career. The midfielder is only interested in moving to Real Madrid, Barcelona, or Liverpool and potentially one to three other unnamed teams. 

Vincent Kompany’s men will kick off their top-flight campaign against Wolfsburg on Sunday.