Bayern Munich could hand 16-year-old Prescott Champions League debut
Bayern Munich may give a senior debut to 16-year-old goalkeeper Leonard Prescott in Wednesday’s Champions League tie against Atalanta due to a severe injury crisis.
The Germany youth international will be thrust into the spotlight if Jonas Urbig fails a late medical test regarding a concussion.
Urbig sustained the head injury during the German giants’ emphatic 6-1 first-leg victory in Italy last week.
Goalkeeping crisis deepens
Manager Vincent Kompany is already without long-term absentee Manuel Neuer, who remains unavailable as he continues his rehabilitation.
The situation worsened when third-choice stopper Sven Ulreich suffered an adductor muscle problem during Saturday’s 1-1 Bundesliga draw with Bayer Leverkusen.
It leaves the teenager as the only viable alternative to step between the posts for the crucial European fixture.
Prescott has even required special clearance to work late evening hours as a minor to ensure his eligibility for the match.
‘We have full confidence in him’
Kompany insisted the club are relaxed about the prospect of relying on the academy graduate.
“Jonas trained normally today, but the decision tomorrow will be a medical one,” the Belgian coach stated.
“If everything goes well then Urbig will be in goal, but if not then we will have to find another solution.”
The former Manchester City captain was quick to praise his young understudy’s composure.
“He is very calm and overall, we as a staff are also calm,” Kompany added.
“If he plays tomorrow he will have our full backing, and everyone will help.”
“There will never be a young player who will be forced to play a main role, but we have full confidence in him whatever happens tomorrow.”
Quarter-final spot in sight
Despite holding a five-goal aggregate advantage, the Bavarians are determined to maintain their formidable momentum.
“This is not a friendly match, and if it is not about the result, it is about performance,” Kompany emphasised.
The six-time European champions know that either Real Madrid or Manchester City await the aggregate winner in the quarter-finals.
It has been a stellar campaign so far for the Munich outfit, who currently lead the domestic title race and have reached the final four of the German Cup.
