Bayern Munich's title credentials are being tested not just on the pitch but by a growing injury list that threatens to stretch their squad to its limits. The 2-2 draw with Borussia Dortmund at the Allianz Arena on Saturday left them level on 18 points with their closest rivals, clinging to top spot only on goal difference. It was a result that felt like a missed opportunity, with Bayern leading twice before conceding a 89th-minute equaliser, and Ballon d'Or winner Harry Kane missing a penalty that could have settled the game earlier.

The bigger concern emerged after the final whistle. Ismael Saibari was operated on Sunday for a syndesmosis ligament rupture and faces three months out. Serge Gnabry suffered a hamstring injury likely to keep him sidelined for one to two months. Michael Olise was also substituted with knee trouble, though he returned to training on Monday and is expected to be available. Manuel Neuer, absent with a foot injury, also trained and could return against Atletico.

That match, at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano on Tuesday, arrives at the worst possible moment. Bayern have drawn their last two Champions League games and need a win to keep pace in the league phase. With Luis Diaz and Jamal Musiala also unavailable, interim coach Aaron Danks has almost no attacking cover beyond Kane and Lennart Karl. How Bayern respond to this pressure will say a great deal about their resilience this season.