Bekenbauer feels Dante has Fallen Off In Performance Compared to Last Season. Hmmmmmmmm

Dante or Dante's peak, was a DAMN ROCK at the back for Bayern and formed one of THE elite defensive partnerships with Boateng. But, even as good as he was, Dante was susceptible to that one big mistake...much like Hummels. It was all plain to see when he decided to do surgery on Reus's stomach with his boot in the Champions League Final. Now, Mr. Beckenbauer has said Dante has gotten WORSE since last season, hence the inclusion of Van Buyten.

Van Buyten is not a GREAT defender. On ANY day of the week, Dante is a much better defender and is someone I would always START ahead of the Belgian who looks like film actor. There is only ONE issue to Dante's game that he needs to clear up for him to be one of the best defenders in the world....CUT OUT THE MISTAKES.
  That is what Beckenbauer was alluding to, and it is something that has been very noticeable. He has everything in his arsenal for a great central defender. He has the intelligence for the position, is resolute, a good tackler, is rarely outrun and is a commanding PRESENCE at the back. It's all a question of always being switched on, and having the utmost concentration. He can easily learn from his partner Boateng who RARELY if ever makes costly mistakes. It's all about always understanding the situation and using your head and thinking about the RIGHT decision to be made defensively.

If Bayern want to do the impossible and do it ALL again this year, Dante WILL be needed and NOT Van Buyten. He is just far too good a defender, even WITH the mistakes, to be left out. I can't really name many defenders who have the attributes that he has. I am sure it is something Pep will be able to work on him with, and really telling him he is at the cusp of being one of THE best central defenders in the world. Damn right...I just said that.


HH