Two comebacks and one hope: Leipzig ahead of Bayern clash

Just in time for the festive Christmas period, things have calmed down for Marco Rose. This applies above all to the job of the RB Leipzig coach. With three wins from the past four games, the criticism is a few decibels quieter, and the 48-year-old can approach the annual finale at Bayern Munich on Friday evening (20:30/DAZN) with a job guarantee.

"I know that as a coach, I in particular am measured by results," emphasized Rose. "If they don't come, then things quickly become unsettled. We've managed to find a bit of calm, but I know how quickly things can go in the other direction."

However, that won't happen until the new year, by which time the personnel situation should have taken a turn for the better. Xaver Schlager will already be in the starting eleven in Munich, David Raum is in the squad - as a serious option, not as a mascot, as Rose announced. Of the three key players who have been injured for months, only Xavi Simons will be missing. The playmaker will not travel to Munich, but will train in Leipzig.

"A long way away" from Bayern

The crazy series of injuries is one of the reasons why Bayern have once again pulled away this season. They have six points ahead of the 15th matchday, which could be halved with a surprise win. But it would hide the status quo a little. "We're a long way off at the moment, you have to be honest," said Rose with Bayern in mind.

Under the 48-year-old's management, Leipzig did not win a single game in November and were eliminated from the Champions League early this month. But progressing in the cup and two league wins gave Rose some much-needed time.

All fit in January

"I've always said that if all our players are fit, then I have every confidence in us," said Rose. That should be the case in January. The coach is absolutely clear about what must then follow: "Then the coach will be even more clearly accountable. Then I have to stand by what I said before. Then you have to win top games, then you have to win the small games and then you can see what it can be enough for in the end."

Qualifying for the Champions League is the minimum target. Progressing in the DFB Cup against Wolfsburg is also a must. And the elimination from the top flight gives Rose more time on the training pitch.

Warning about Kane

First, however, the focus is on Bayern. His players will have to run like rabbits, announced Rose. Although Bayern recently lost in Mainz, they will have their X-factor back against Leipzig. Harry Kane is fit again after recovering from a torn muscle fibre and should be a serious option for the starting eleven.

"14 goals and seven assists - that's the difference, that's what makes Kane special," said Rose. "You can see straight away when he's missing. But you can also see immediately when he's on. He doesn't need a long warm-up time."

The England captain has not yet been available for Bayern this month due to a torn muscle fibre. Coach Vincent Kompany left open the extent to which the 31-year-old can be used. He will decide after the final training session.