Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich return to action on Saturday with a high-profile trip to face RB Leipzig at the Red Bull Arena. With Leipzig sitting inside the top four and Bayern beginning the second half of the season with a commanding lead, this fixture carries major implications at both ends of the title race.
The reverse meeting earlier in the campaign ended in an emphatic Bayern victory, but Leipzig have responded strongly since then and arrive eager to prove they can challenge the league’s dominant force on home soil.
RB Leipzig vs Bayern Munich Kickoff Time
The match will be played at the Red Bull Arena on Saturday, January 17, 2026.
- Local time (Germany): 6:30 PM
- GMT: 5:30 PM
- ET: 12:30 PM
How to Watch RB Leipzig vs Bayern Munich Live
Supporters in the UK can follow the match live on Sky Sports. In the United States, the Bundesliga fixture will be streamed live on ESPN+.
Availability may vary by region, so fans elsewhere should check their local Bundesliga broadcast partners.
Match Context and Preview
Bayern Munich begin the second half of the Bundesliga season with an 11-point cushion at the top of the table, having dropped points only twice so far. Vincent Kompany’s side arrive full of confidence after another composed midweek win and will be keen to reassert their authority against one of their closest domestic challengers.
RB Leipzig, currently third, have been solid rather than spectacular, but the opportunity to face Bayern at home provides a chance to make a statement. With Champions League qualification very much in their sights, Leipzig know a positive result here could reshape the momentum of their season.
RB Leipzig vs Bayern Munich Team News
Bayern will be without Konrad Laimer, who is sidelined for several weeks after suffering a calf muscle injury. Josip Stanišić remains unavailable as he continues his recovery from an ankle problem, while Sacha Boey is still a doubt due to illness. Nicolas Jackson is also absent due to Africa Cup of Nations duty.
The major boost for the visitors is the return of Jamal Musiala, who is back in the squad after a lengthy injury layoff. Joshua Kimmich and Alphonso Davies are also expected to be available after returning to training.
RB Leipzig are expected to have a largely settled squad, with Xaver Schlager likely to play a key role as they attempt to disrupt Bayern’s rhythm in midfield.
Predicted Lineups
RB Leipzig (4-2-3-1):
Blaswich; Henrichs, Simakan, Lukeba, Raum; Schlager, Haidara; Olmo, Simons, Forsberg; Openda
Bayern Munich (4-2-3-1):
Neuer; Upamecano, Tah, Ito, Davies; Pavlovic, Goretzka; Olise, Musiala, Díaz; Kane
RB Leipzig vs Bayern Munich Prediction
Leipzig are strong at home and capable of troubling any side in Germany, but Bayern’s depth, control in midfield and firepower up front remain unmatched. With Musiala back and Harry Kane continuing his prolific form, the visitors look well-placed to edge another important win.
Prediction: Bayern Munich 3–1 RB Leipzig
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