Bayern Munich will be without defender Raphaël Guerreiro for the first leg of their Champions League semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain after the club announced he has not travelled with the squad. The Portuguese international is sidelined with a suspected torn muscle fibre, according to the squad list published by the Bundesliga champions on Monday. The absence adds to Bayern's injury concerns ahead of the crucial European tie in Paris on Tuesday.
Guerreiro joins a list of absentees that includes Serge Gnabry, who is recovering from an adductor issue, and young midfielder Tom Bischof, who also has a torn muscle fibre. Reserve goalkeeper Sven Ulreich has returned to the travelling party, providing cover, but the loss of Guerreiro is a significant blow to manager Vincent Kompany's defensive options. The 32-year-old has been a versatile and experienced component in Bayern's back line this season, featuring regularly at left-back and in midfield.
The squad announcement, made via the club's official social media channels, confirmed that the majority of key players have made the trip to France. This includes striker Harry Kane, wingers Luis Díaz and Michael Olise, and defensive pillars Dayot Upamecano, Jonathan Tah, and Joshua Kimmich. The team had rotated heavily for a 4-3 Bundesliga win over Mainz 05 last Saturday, with an eye firmly on this European fixture.
Guerreiro's injury comes at a critical juncture in Bayern's season, with the Champions League representing their last chance for a major trophy. His ability to contribute both defensively and in build-up play will be missed against a potent PSG attack. Kompany will likely turn to alternatives such as Alphonso Davies or Noussair Mazraoui to fill the void on the left side of the defence.
The context of the injury further depletes a squad already managing several fitness issues. Youngster Lennart Karl remains out with a longer-term absence, not expected back until the end of April at the earliest. Bayern's depth will be tested as they navigate the decisive phase of the competition, with the return leg in Munich scheduled for next week. The club has not provided a specific timeline for Guerreiro's recovery, leaving his availability for the second leg in considerable doubt.
