Borussia Dortmund vs Bayern Munich: Combined XI of Der Klassiker

Right-back: Joshua Kimmich

Kimmich caught our imagination with his attacking prowess last season

The Bayern fullback was the toast of the town last season, scoring six times but assisting a staggering 16 goals in all competitions, 12 of which came in the league. And even if he failed to replicate those heroics in Germany's catastrophic World Cup campaign, Kimmich is getting back to his best in the new season with three assists registered already.

It would be an interesting duel between him and Hakimi down this flank and the better of the two that evening could significantly impact the proceedings.

Centre-back: Manuel Akanji

Akanji has been such a vital addition for Dortmund

Roped in for a sizable $18 million from Basel in the winter transfer last season, Akanji is starting to proving to be a bang for the buck this term with his commanding presence at the back. He's a reckoning force, never holding back from lunging into tackles and also charging out of his area to push his team forward.

The 23-year old's impeccable vision has also seen him average an impressive 4.4 clearances per game, while his strike against Nurnberg last month also gave a glimpse of his offensive instincts.

Centre-back: Matts Hummels

Hummels time at Bayern has been hampered by injury

Former Borussia Dortmund skipper has offered no great shakes so far this season, but remains a key figure at the heart of Bayern's backline. He has been used sparingly by Niko Kovac so far, starting him in only five games though Hummels is primed to start on Saturday.

He averages 2.4 tackles and almost 2 interceptions per game, while an absurd 4.8 aerial duel success is a testament to his aerial prowess, and could be crucial to nip airborne threats.

Left-back: Achraf Hakimi

Hakimi is showing Real Madrid what a gem they have let go

Squelched by the limited opportunities at Real Madrid, Hakimi has breathed new life at Dortmund. With six assists in all competitions, he's proving to be instrumental in the attack, adding an extra edge from the flanks with his youthfulness and incredible burst of speed.

And given Bayern's ageing squad, players like him can be an effective counterpoint and wreak havoc from the wings.