By Oliver Trust

BERLIN, March 28 (Xinhua) -- Bayern Munich faces unexpected challenges following injuries to full-back Alphonso Davies and central defender Dayot Upamecano.

As attention turns to the Champions League quarterfinal against Inter Milan and a potential "home final" in Munich, the club must also address a critical threat to its Bundesliga title hopes.

Ahead of the league's 27th round, Bayern's seemingly secure 2025 German championship is in jeopardy due to recent poor performances and risking significant repercussions.

"We opened the door with the defeat against Bochum and the draw against Union. Leverkusen seized their chances, and their determination from last season seems renewed," Bayern board member Karlheinz Rummenigge said before Saturday's match against St. Pauli.

Citing Champions League demands, Rummenigge emphasized the need to "take every league game seriously and invest all we have."

Just weeks ago, the Bundesliga title appeared assured, allowing Bayern to focus on reaching the Champions League final on May 31 in Munich.

Now, their league lead over Bayer Leverkusen - led by Spanish coach Xabi Alonso - has dwindled to six points. Alonso has vowed an "all-out fight" for this season's title.

Compounding issues, injuries to Davies (cruciate ligament rupture) and Upamecano (knee), alongside goalkeeper Manuel Neuer's fitness concerns, have destabilized the squad.

Coach Vincent Kompany must restructure the team for both Champions League and league matches. Defensive duties now fall to Eric Dier, Hiroki Ito, Josip Stanisic, Leon Goretzka (shifted to defense), and Raphael Guerreiro.

While Bayern's depth offers solutions, tactical adjustments carry risks. Rummenigge stressed focus: "We can't afford to waste points anymore."

The 95-cap 1980 European champion warned that Bundesliga setbacks could impact Champions League performance. "We need the same seriousness in the league finish," he added. Enditem

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