Bayern Munich's Thomas Muller has been ruled out of both legs of the UEFA Champions League encounter with Liverpool. This came after his two-match ban was upheld by UEFA. The 29-year-old German forward was shown a straight red card in Bayern Munich's final group game against Ajax for a high challenge on Nicolas Tagliafico.
Still, the 10 men Bavarians managed to grind out a 3-3 draw which secured top spot for them in Group E. Having drawn Liverpool in the Champions League Round of 16, Niko Kovac's side appealed the red card decision hoping that it could get Muller cleared for the fixture. Nonetheless, the Allianz Arena outfit on Monday that it has had its petition rejected.
Life under Niko Kovac this season has been quite indifferent for Muller with the 2014 FIFA World Cup winner managing just five goals from 28 appearances. The striker featured in all six UEFA Champions League goal stage games but could not get on the scoreboard in any of the outings.
Bayern Munich's first clash with Liverpool is scheduled for February 19 at Anfield. The return leg at the Allianz Arena will take place on March 13.
Ahead of the fixture, Jurgen Klopp has admitted being wary of the German opposition despite their recent struggles.
"We are still in the Champions League and I am very happy about it. It will be a very difficult game – yet (listening to some people) at some point it seems we are already through because it's only Bayern Munich!," Klopp said as per Goal.
"Have you ever looked at the team they have or how they are in shape now? "So we will be ready for Champions League and a very, very tough game."
Klopp and his men will host Bournemouth at Anfield over the weekend before they welcome Bayern Munich to Merseyside. On the other hand, the Bavarians will feature against Hertha BSC, Schalke and Augsburg ahead of the epic clash with the Reds.
