There was one particularly encouraging development for Bayern Munich fans in Saturday’s 1–1 draw between FC Bayern II and Schweinfurt — highly-touted prospect Wisdom Mike returned to competitive action.
The winger had been sidelined for nearly five months following a hip injury, so seeing him back on the pitch was the biggest positive. Mike was introduced in the 75th minute, giving him roughly 15 minutes plus stoppage time to begin rebuilding his match fitness.
Mike was not particularly influential
during his short cameo and, as FCBayern.com’s own match report noted, he was unable to produce any decisive moments after coming on. There was no goal, assist or major attacking contribution, and he understandably looked like a player finding his rhythm again after a lengthy spell away.
That should not be viewed negatively.
For a young player returning from a significant injury, this was about getting minutes, testing his body in a competitive environment and taking the first step toward full fitness. Expecting the explosive winger who caused problems for defenders last season to immediately return at 100% would be unrealistic.
The next few games will be much more telling. If Bayern Munich can gradually increase his minutes without any setbacks, we should start to see the pace, directness and attacking threat that made Mike such an exciting prospect in the first place.
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