Pep Guardiola: Bayern Munich has only 14 first team players for Manchester United clash

Josep Guardiola, head coach of FC Bayern Munchen reacts during a press conference ahead of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final second leg match against Manchester United.

Bayern Munich manager Pep Guardiola has admitted that he is out of options ahead of their Champions League quarter-final second-leg tie against Manchester United.

Speaking to reporters, he said: “We are playing at home, that’s an important point. It is never easy against English teams. It’s a final, a life or death match.”

“United will be looking to hit us on the break and at set-plays and we have to be aware of that. They are one of the best teams in the world, but our away goal is very important even though 1-1 can be very dangerous.”

“I think they will sit very deep. They play very defensively, and are always on the counterattack, and they are playing very, very well.”

United drew the first leg 1-1 at Old Trafford last week, but Rooney picked up a toe injury during the game that has threatened to stop him featuring in the second leg. However, the club’s twitter handle later confirmed that the English striker is back at training and will be available for the tie.

“[Wayne] Rooney is going to play, 100 per cent. He is going to play, I bet you a big big glass of beer,” he added. “He is a big player, one of the best I have seen in my career. If we win, we’re through. If not, we’re out. It will come down to small details.”

When asked about his team, he said: “We only have 14 players from the first team, so I do not have many options.”

Bayern Munich will be without their vice-captain Bastian Schweinsteiger who is suspended after getting sent off in the 90th minute of the game for a foul against Wayne Rooney.

Along with Schweinsteiger, Spaniard Javi Martinez is unavailable too due to suspension, along with Xherdan Shaqiri and Thiago Alcantara who will miss the tie due to injury.

Former Manchester United player Gary Neville’s reaction to Guardiola’s misery is something worth mentioning as the 39-year old tried to poke fun at this situation.

“@FCBayernEN: #Guardiola on his squad selection for #FCBMUFC: “We only have 14 first-team players so I haven’t got too many options. Awwwww

— Gary Neville (@GNev2) April 8, 2014