Thomas Tuchel: 'I expect a very strong and high-tempo Galatasaray'

Bayern Munich manager Thomas Tuchel, speaking at the press conference held at the Allianz Arena ahead of tomorrow's UEFA Champions League match against Galatasaray, said, "I expect a very strong, extremely intense Galatasaray tomorrow. They remind me a bit of the Atalanta Bergamo team from a few years ago. They were a team that made a great breakthrough at that time and were difficult for everyone."

Explaining that they had enough problems in the first match in Istanbul to learn from, Tuchel said, "Galatasaray was very strong. They played very intensely and courageously. They defended from the front for the first 70 minutes, they ran a lot, and we had to withstand a lot of pressure. We need precision, movement in possession, and good structure. We also want to carry over our attacking processes from the Dortmund match. I expect an intense and difficult game."

When asked if they were nervous in the first match, the German manager said, "We weren't nervous, but it was a very intense match where we were prone to making mistakes. Galatasaray played at an extremely high tempo with and without the ball. We were much better in the second half, we had better transition attacks. Then, thanks to our efficiency, we managed to win the match. Of course, we were also lucky. What I know about the Champions League is that away games are difficult. The quality is getting closer and closer."

Noting that he expects Galatasaray to have great fan support in tomorrow's match, Tuchel commented, "It won't be a classic home game for us. A large number of fans will support our opponent. When we have the ball, we will need to move a lot and make good decisions about when to implement our transition game. We are expecting an intense and balanced match and we are looking forward to it."

Evaluating the fact that goalkeeper Manuel Neuer will play in the team tomorrow, Tuchel said, "He is doing extraordinarily well. If he continues like this, he will definitely reach his top level again. He gives us stability and calmness, leads with his attitude, and makes the players around him better."