By Oliver Trust
BERLIN, Dec. 9 (Xinhua) -- While Bayern Munich's revenue surged to a record 1.017 billion euros in the previous business year, challenges remain for the German record champions.
Ahead of Tuesday's UEFA Champions League match against Donetsk, contract extensions for Jamal Musiala, Joshua Kimmich, Alphonso Davies, and Manuel Neuer remain unresolved.
The Bavarians announced plans to meet their financial limits for Musiala and Kimmich while aiming to outpace European rivals. Recent reports suggest several offers from leading clubs, including Real Madrid, Manchester City, and Liverpool.
Board member for sports Max Eberl likened the team's reliance on Musiala to "Messi at Barcelona and Ronaldo for Real."
While critical personnel decisions loom, Bayern is burdened by their German Cup exit and a string of injuries. Star striker Harry Kane, Thomas Müller, and Manuel Neuer are sidelined, while recent injuries to Alphonso Davies and French international Kingsley Coman have further complicated matters for head coach Vincent Kompany.
With a strong performance in the Champions League group stage now essential, the team is scraping together its remaining energy to reach the winter break on a high note.
The Cup exit has heightened expectations for silverware, with the 2025 Champions League final-set to be played at Bayern's home stadium in Munich-a declared goal alongside the national league title.
A victory over Donetsk is seen as mandatory, while Bayern also seeks to maintain their six-point lead in the Bundesliga after board member and former president Uli Hoeness declared the 2025 national title all but secured.
Given the inconsistency of their domestic rivals, the Bundesliga title appears within reach. However, Bayern faces tougher challenges on the international stage.
"We will do our homework and start 2025 successfully," Kompany said. ■
