Bayern's explosive start
Bayern Munich made an explosive start to the Champions League with a 2-0 win at Spain's Villarreal in Group A on Wednesday but for coach Jupp Heynckes it was equally important to see that his players were having fun.
After almost two seasons under strict disciplinarian Louis van Gaal, where hard work and obedience was the order of the day, Bayern players this season are looking far more relaxed and enjoying their football.
The timing could not have been better given that the Champions League final is in Munich next year and Bayern are eager to get a shot at the big prize in front of a home crowd.
"For players at such a level it is important that they have fun, that they enjoy themselves," 66-year old veteran coach Heynckes told reporters.
"They need to be able to express themselves and you have to make them feel important," Heynckes, in his third spell at Bayern, added.
Bayern scored once in each half through Toni Kroos and Rafinha but could have added at least another three as they controlled possession against the Spaniards and kept a clean sheet for the seventh straight game in all competitions.
Even despite injuries to top striker Mario Gomez and defender Daniel van Buyten, the Bavarians kept pressing and seemed to have lost none of their offensive spark.
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