Mehdi Benatia Included in Bayern Squad Ahead of Schalke Clash, Guardiola Remains Cautious
Bayern Munich defender Mehdi Benatia has been named in the squad for the upcoming Bundesliga fixture against Schalke 04 in Gelsenkirchen. However, head coach Pep Guardiola has yet to confirm whether Benatia or fellow new signing Xabi Alonso will feature in the match.
Speaking ahead of the game, Guardiola acknowledged the readiness of both players but remained non-committal about their involvement. “Both of them are coming and are fit. As for whether they will play, I don’t know yet,” he said. “Xabi Alonso played in the Spanish Super Cup and has just passed his medical. Benatia has not played for some time but they are both ready.”
Benatia, who recently signed a five-year contract with Bayern, has impressed the coaching staff with his versatility and defensive acumen. Guardiola praised the Moroccan international, highlighting his experience in different defensive systems.
“At Udinese, he played in a three-man defense and at AS Roma in a four-man defense. He is a very good player…” Guardiola added.
With Bayern looking to maintain their dominant start to the Bundesliga season, the potential integration of Benatia and Alonso could provide fresh options and further strengthen the squad.
