Josip Stanisic has been ruled out indefinitely after suffering an ankle ligament injury during Bayern Munich's emphatic Bundesliga win over VfL Wolfsburg, dealing a fresh defensive setback for Vincent Kompany's side.
Max Eberl has moved to play down speculation surrounding Dayot Upamecano's future at Bayern Munich, dismissing reports that an agreement has been reached over a new contract.
Bayern Munich underlined their authority in the Bundesliga with a ruthless eight-goal demolition of Wolfsburg, extending their lead at the top of the table to 11 points.
Joshua Kimmich's ongoing injury has cast an early shadow over the Bundesliga's return from the festive break, with Bayern Munich set to be without their vice-captain when they host Wolfsburg.
Jamal Musiala has moved closer to a return for Bayern Munich as the club confirmed plans to ease him back into action during January, with sporting director Christoph Freund stressing there would be no rush with the midfielder's recovery.
Harry Kane has signalled that his Bayern Munich story could stretch well beyond 2027, and the club's leadership has responded with clear approval.