Thomas Tuchel commends Jude Bellingham as ‘exceptional’ while Bayern Munich get ready to face the ‘mystique’ of Real Madrid.

In a thrilling build-up to the UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg between Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, Thomas Tuchel has highlighted the threat posed by the “extraordinary” Jude Bellingham. The Real Madrid midfielder has been in sensational form in his debut season, scoring 17 goals in La Liga and four in the Champions League. Tuchel acknowledges that Bayern are well aware of Bellingham’s capabilities and will be looking to find solutions to stop him.

Tuchel, who has Champions League pedigree with Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain, recognizes the challenge of facing Real Madrid, a team with 14 Champions League titles. He admits that Bayern are up against the aura and legend that surrounds the Spanish giants. Overcoming Real Madrid in the semi-finals requires a combination of luck, momentum, freedom, and the right approach.

Looking ahead to the first leg at the Allianz Arena, Tuchel emphasizes the importance of tactics and finding the right balance. The players will be the ones driving the approach, and Tuchel believes they have the potential to achieve great things. He also mentions that he will make a last-minute decision on the fitness of several players, including Leroy Sane and Matthijs de Ligt.

On a positive note, Bayern can expect the return of Serge Gnabry from injury and the availability of Alphonso Davies, who was suspended for the quarter-final second leg against Arsenal. The stage is set for an exhilarating clash between two European powerhouses, and all eyes will be on Jude Bellingham as he aims to continue his remarkable season.