FC Bayern Munich travels to Bergamo for the first time to face Atalanta in the UEFA Champions League round of 16 first leg on Tuesday. Bayern deals with injuries including Manuel Neuer's absence, while Harry Kane returns and Jamal Musiala regains form. Atalanta advanced after defeating Borussia Dortmund in playoffs.
The first leg kicks off at 21:00 CET on March 10, 2026, at Stadio di Bergamo, marking Bayern's first competitive visit to the Lombard city of about 120,000 inhabitants. Atalanta, known as 'La Dea' (the goddess), qualified by overturning a 2-0 deficit against Borussia Dortmund in the knockout playoffs, winning 4-3 on aggregate with a last-gasp penalty. Seventh in Serie A, they drew 2-2 with Udinese recently, thanks to Gianluca Scamacca's brace.
Atalanta coach Raffaele Palladino is optimistic: “This will be a magical night... We want to cause difficulties for Bayern.” They miss Charles De Ketelaere (meniscus), Giorgio Scalvini (suspension), with Éderson and Giacomo Raspadori doubtful.
Bayern, Bundesliga leaders with an 11-point lead after a 4-1 win over Borussia Mönchengladbach, were runners-up in the league phase. However, captain Manuel Neuer (39) is sidelined with a muscle fiber tear in his calf, with Jonas Urbig (22) stepping in. Other absences: Alphonso Davies and Hiroki Itō (muscular issues).
Harry Kane, involved in 33 goals in 33 CL games for Bayern since 2023/24, recovered from a calf blow and trained well, though coach Vincent Kompany is cautious: 'We want to wait until tomorrow morning... He's involved and can play a role.' Starting status uncertain.
Jamal Musiala (23) is building momentum after a July 2025 shin fracture and ankle dislocation at the Club World Cup. He played 90 minutes vs. Gladbach, scoring a penalty and briefly captaining: 'It feels good... A big responsibility.' Sporting director Max Eberl praised his progress, while Kompany protects 'Bambi': 'He's outstanding... No need to talk about what he has to deliver.'
Eberl warned: “Atalanta... every year at the top – we are favourites, but never underestimate the underdog.” Kompany echoed: “No easy opponent.” Stats: Atalanta lost 3/14 vs. German sides in UEFA, no clean sheet in 9 CL knockouts; Bayern lost 1/12 recent R16 ties.
