Examining the Bayern Munich Positional Battles Ahead of 2016-17 Season

As the 2016-17 Bundesliga season approaches, Bayern Munich are well into their preparations for their first campaign under new trainer Carlo Ancelotti. The former Real Madrid and Milan coach took the helm last month and in recent weeks has welcomed his full squad back from extended leave following Euro 2016 and the Copa America Centenario.

Before he took over, Ancelotti pledged to Sky not to make "too many changes" to the team, which he called "fantastic" (h/t ESPN's Stephan Uersfeld). But every trainer has his own preferences, and in a squad like Bayern's, there is always competition for starting roles.

Below, Bleacher Report takes a look at some of the most important head-to-head matchups among Bayern's stars as they compete for Ancelotti's favor and a starting role.

Joshua Kimmich vs. Renato Sanches

Bayern have two of Europe's finest young holding midfielders in Kimmich and Sanches. The Portuguese may appear to have a head-to-head advantage given that Bayern spent €35 million this summer to sign him, per Transfermarkt.

However, one must not forget that Kimmich defied the odds in imposing himself in his first season in Munich, even without having had a single Bundesliga game under his belt prior to his move to the Allianz Arena: He's a fighter. And at 21, his age is an advantage over the 18-year-old Sanches.

Both have great strength despite a shorter stature, and they are great ball-winners who are never shy to challenge for possession. Their aggressive midfield play will be important for Bayern in the years to come.

Although Kimmich and Sanches may partner one another at Bayern in the long term, they will have to compete head-to-head for a role alongside more established stars like Arturo Vidal, Xabi Alonso and Thiago Alcantara for the time being. 

CHRISTOF STACHE/Getty Images

Franck Ribery vs. Douglas Costa

Ribery was the king of Munich for almost a decade before Costa walked into the Bayern squad and took the Frenchman's role last fall. The aging veteran had had a miserable 2014-15 season that was marked by injury after injury, and the last campaign was no better overall.

He recovered form and fitness after returning to action in February, though, and looks to be a contender for a starting role once more. Although, it should be said that given his age of 33 years, time is not on his side.

Costa was signed last summer, apparently to serve as cover for Ribery with a chance of taking a permanent starting role sooner rather than later. And he was magnificent last fall. But the Brazilian struggled during the spring as Ribery returned and looked a bit off his brilliant best.

There's no doubt Costa is the future, but whether that future begins now or will have to wait a bit longer is yet to be seen. 

Arjen Robben vs. Kingsley Coman

Like Ribery, Robben has been a linchpin in the Bayern team for many years, and it's hard to picture the Bavarians without their wing wizard playing a key role. Yet, like Ribery, injuries have taken their toll on the Dutchman, who played just 1,498 minutes in all competitions last season, per Transfermarkt.

He is now less important to the club than he once was, and at 32 years of age, he will be replaced in the near future.

Kingsley Coman is the most obvious replacement for Robben, but whether the youngster will become first-choice immediately or in a year or two is one of this season's most intriguing storylines. Coman only turned 20 in June, so he has a long career ahead of him but also plenty of development to go through.

Thiago Alcantara vs. Xabi Alonso

By this point, it should be assumed that Vidal is a lock in the Bayern midfield. Sanches and Kimmich can compete for the role as his backup, or if Ancelotti prefers a more physical midfield, a spot alongside the Chilean.

Thomas Muller will also likely take a central role, albeit more advanced and just off main striker Robert Lewandowski. That means that in all likelihood, there will be a maximum of one spot in central midfield for a main distributor, the role of which will probably be taken by either Thiago or Alonso.

"

Carlo must rotate between Vidal, Kimmich, Thiago & Sanches in midfield. Alonso should play a secondary role this season...

— Home Bayern (@HomeBayern_) August 9, 2016"

Thiago is no longer a "rising talent," he's 25 years of age and should be aiming to start every game. Previously, Pep Guardiola seemed to prefer Alonso, even at the age of 34. The veteran had a great 2015-16 season and is easily Bayern's best passer over long distances: His pedigree is outstanding. But time is not on his side.

Thiago can't match his compatriot in terms of distribution from deep areas, but he's much more mobile, is an excellent dribbler and can create play in and around the penalty area. He'll have to convince Ancelotti that he's finally at the level needed to take over from Alonso.

@Mr_Bundesliga