Image Credits: Imago Images
The Bundesliga and Europe’s other major leagues will pause for almost three weeks from September 18-20 to October 9-11, as players join their national teams during a merged international break.
The new format is coordinated by FIFA, allowing players to represent their countries while domestic leagues pause across major football nations. Previously, the September and October international windows were separate, each lasting around two weeks.
Bayern Munich have received a boost, with German outlet Kicker reporting that former Liverpool forward Luis Diaz will miss Colombia’s upcoming fixtures as he looks to rediscover his best form.
The 29-year-old has been granted a break following discussions with Colombia head coach Nestor Lorenzo, who has expressed concerns over the player’s fatigue.
Diaz will remain in Munich rather than join Colombia for their upcoming matches against Mexico, Paraguay and Peru.
The decision comes after a difficult start to the 2026/27 season, with the former Liverpool star scoring just once in seven competitive appearances.
Diaz has continued to create opportunities but has struggled with his finishing, while his usual acceleration and explosiveness have also appeared reduced.
That is a stark contrast to last season, when he recorded 50 goal contributions for Bayern, scoring 26 goals and providing 24 assists.
His struggles continued in Bayern’s recent 7-0 win over Union Berlin, where he failed to score or assist, although one of his goals was ruled out for offside.
Bayern remain confident that Diaz’s poor form is temporary. Sporting director Max Eberl recently defended the winger, while teammate Jonathan Tah pointed to the physical demands of his role.
Colombia coach Nestor Lorenzo has also spoken to Diaz about his fatigue, with both agreeing that remaining in Munich would benefit the former FC Porto forward.
There is some encouragement from last season, when Diaz was given an enforced break and returned in improved form. Bayern will hope the additional rest can have a similar effect this time.
Diaz joined Bayern from Liverpool in the summer of 2025 after helping the Reds win the 2024/25 Premier League title.
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