Thomas Tuchel discusses centre-back pairing of Leon Goretzka and Noussair Mazraoui | OneFootball

Last night Bayern Munich eased their way through the first round of the DFB Pokal as they beat Preußen Münster 4-0 away from home.

However, Thomas Tuchel produced a couple of shock choices within his starting lineup for this fixture as full back Noussair Mazraoui and midfielder Leon Goretzka were given the responsibility of both playing in the centre-back position.

Both players went on to have a comfortable match in their unfamiliar position, receiving high praises for their efforts.

“They did very well. It wasn’t always easy and I hope we don’t have to try again. But it was also pleasant from the feeling that they both accepted it and immediately said: ‘We’ll do it, get together and solve it together.’ And that’s what it looked like,” said Tuchel.

Tuchel then further explained why he chose Goretzka and Mazraoui as his centre-back partnership for this match: “Leon is actually predestined for this in terms of his body and speed on the track.

“In addition, he has a clear build up game, and in terms of build up it was actually the same position as always because the game was very deep.”

Tuchel additionally explained that Mazraoui has ‘good positional play’ and is a ‘good header from a standing position.’

During the game, Serge Gnabry suffered a broken forearm following a collision with Johannes Schenk, on loan from Bayern, which forced the German off in the 11th minute. Speaking post-match, Tuchel confirmed that the 28-year-old would undergo surgery, meaning he will likely miss out on Julian Nagelsmann’s first Germany squad announcement.

GGFN | Matthew Gritton