Bayern Munich are set to leave Arjen Robben out of Saturday's German league match with Freiburg to give the Dutch winger more time to recover from injury ahead of their Champions League campaign.
Robben is recovering from back and groin injuries and resumed training with the Bayern squad on Monday.
After four league games, Bayern are top of the league and host Freiburg at Munich's Allianz Arena, but Robben could be spared as the Bavarians face Villarreal away in the Champions League next Wednesday.
"Arjen Robben is on the mend, although I don't know if he will be fit to face Freiburg," said Bayern sporting director Christian Nerlinger.
"The main thing in his case is that it won't be a long-term problem. This groin inflammation has caused trouble in the past, but it's looking good for him now."
Nerlinger said it is crucial Bayern get off to a good start in their Champions League campaign in Spain, when Munich will certainly need Robben's play-making skills.
"It's a game we can't afford to lose, because otherwise we'll immediately feel the pressure, but I'm confident we'll avoid defeat," said Nerlinger.
Bayern then welcome Manchester City to Munich on September 27, but Nerlinger said he felt no trepidation about the impending visit of the big-spending Premier League powerhouses.
"There?s no fear, just a real sense of anticipation," he said.
"The players want to show what they can do at this level.
"Obviously, Manchester City are a rapidly growing threat. Everyone knows the extent of their ambition, and they've simply bought in half the world's best players.
"It'll be a real test for us, but we're looking forward to it. And I remain convinced we?ll make it to the last 16."
Source: AFP
