Bayern need Ribery fit, says chairman

Karl-Heinz Rummenigge admits Bayern Munich depend on Franck Ribery, but he does not think that is surprising.

The Bavarians had to make do without the Frenchman in the Bundesliga match against Nurnberg at the weekend due to a rib injury, resulting in them having to settle for a draw.

And the Bayern Munich chairman concedes his side are reliant on Ribery’s quality.

“Our game depends a lot on Ribery. Like Messi at Barcelona, Ronaldo at Real Madrid, or Rooney at Manchester United,” Rummenigge told Bild.

“That’s simply the way it is. Every big team has some key players, on whom they tend to rely.”

The winger is doubtful for Tuesday’s Champions League match against Valencia, but Bayern are hopeful that the 29-year-old will be fit enough to feature from the start.

Ribery has made 13 appearances in all competitions for Bayern this season, netting four goals in the process.