A heavyweight friendly clash is set to ignite the Allianz Arena as Bayern Munich hosts Olympique Lyonnais on Saturday, August 2, 2025. This pre-season fixture marks a significant step in the preparations for both clubs as they gear up for the upcoming season, with new tactical ideas and player combinations on display.
Bayern Munich: A New Era Under Kompany
For Bayern Munich, this is more than just a friendly; it's a first true test under new manager Vincent Kompany. The German champions are looking to rebound after a mixed summer, which included a defeat in the FIFA Club World Cup. Kompany's men have been in pre-season training since the end of July and this match will be their first of three tune-up games before the Supercup final.
The Bayern faithful will be eager to get a glimpse of the team's new look, especially with the arrival of new signing Luis Díaz from Liverpool. The Colombian winger is expected to make at least a short appearance, and fans will be watching closely to see how he links up with established stars like Harry Kane and Michael Olise. The match will also be a chance to see how Kompany's tactics are beginning to take shape, particularly in the absence of Jamal Musiala, who is out with a long-term injury. Despite the injuries, Bayern's squad depth remains formidable, with a probable starting XI featuring familiar faces like Manuel Neuer, Joshua Kimmich, and the defensive partnership of Jonathan Tah and Dayot Upamecano.
Olympique Lyonnais: Building Momentum
Lyon, under the guidance of new manager Paulo Fonseca, arrives in Munich with a perfect pre-season record. The French side has been in superb form, winning their last three matches without conceding a single goal while scoring eight. This defensive solidity and attacking sharpness will be a major confidence boost for a team that recently secured its place in Ligue 1 after a successful appeal against demotion.
The friendly also presents a homecoming of sorts for Lyon's Corentin Tolisso, who spent five successful years at Bayern, winning numerous titles including the Champions League. His experience and knowledge of the Allianz Arena will be a key asset for Lyon. The team's recent form suggests they are a potent blend of sharp finishing and resilient defending, and they will be looking to capitalize on any potential rustiness from the Bayern squad. Lyon's aggressive pressing and quick counter-attacking style could pose a serious threat to Bayern's high defensive line.
Head-to-Head and Key Storylines
Historically, Bayern has dominated this fixture, with a head-to-head record of five wins, two draws, and two losses in competitive matches. The most famous recent meetings came in the Champions League, with Bayern triumphing in the semi-finals in both 2010 and 2020. While the stakes are much lower in this friendly, the history between these two European giants adds an extra layer of intrigue.
Beyond the result, this match is a crucial opportunity for both managers to test out new strategies, integrate new players, and assess their squads' fitness levels. The crowd at the Allianz Arena will be anticipating an entertaining, high-scoring affair. Bayern, with its attacking firepower and home advantage, will be the favorites, but Lyon's recent form and counter-attacking prowess mean they are more than capable of causing an upset. The stage is set for a fascinating encounter that will provide a valuable snapshot of where both teams stand at the beginning of this new season.
