Robben’s Extended Injury Leaves Door Open for Coman
When Bayern released a statement regarding midfielder Arjen Robben just over two weeks ago, they called his absence problems in the adductor region,” claiming he needed just a few days out to give these “problems” a bit of rest.
Now, two weeks later, Robben still hasn’t seen the pitch. Fans have grown anxious lately, as rumors swirl that the 32 year old will miss both quarterfinal Champions league games against Benfica.
With the injury appearing to be more serious than initially believed, fans are left to speculate when Robben will return. Memories of the oft-injured ankles of Franck Ribery may be coming to mind, as the ankle injury that kept him out for two months during the 2010-2011 season was first assumed to be minor.
All things considered, things could be worse for Pep Guardiola and the rest of Bayern FC. With Robben sitting, 19 year old Kingsley Coman, who came to Bayern on loan from Juventas in August, will likely see a continued uptick in playing time.
The man who Franck Ribery said he hoped would be the “next Ribery” hadn’t received a wealth of time on the pitch on the French national team or with Juventas, but has thrived under Pep’s coaching, crediting Guardiola with his scoring surge as of late.
At just 19, Coman has not only the time, but the potential to develop into a standout player for Bayern. He’s scored four times for Bayern during this season and was able to tack on two more during Championship League games.
With Coman on fire and Brazilian-born Douglas Costa prepared to take over any extra minutes should Robben miss the rumored five weeks, Bayern is in much better position now than it has been in the recent past. The depth of the team gives little for fans to stress over during Robben’s absence, as important a member of the team as he may be.
While the loss of Robben for a longer-than-expected period of time will certainly take its toll on Bayern, it’s not far off to think that perhaps the upcoming Benfica matches isn’t really where he is needed. With
When asked about Coman’s development under Guardiola and his future potential, Ribery offered more than just a comparison to himself.
“He can become even better.”
