Germany head coach Joachim Low believes injured Manchester City winger Leroy Sane will be fit in time to take part in next summer’s European Championships.
The Germany and former Schalke star seemed set for a stunning return to the Bundesliga with Bayern Munich this summer as a deal with City was reportedly close.
But Sane went down injured during City’s Community Shield triumph over Liverpool, and was diagnosed with an ACL tear, requiring surgery and likely sidelining him for most of the 2019-20 season.
The injury would also seem to put his participation for the 2020 European Championships next summer, as even if he is healthy, he may be lacking in match fitness.
However, while Low said he was disappointed to see Sane suffer the injury, he believes the winger will be ready in time for the Euros.
“We were very sad and downcast when we heard about it,” Low told DAZN at the half-time of the Bundesliga opener between Bayern Munich and Hertha Berlin. “I had contact with Leroy. For him and his situation, of course, it was the worst possible time.
“We hope he will come back as soon as possible. He is a player of incredible quality and we wish him all the best.
“He will make it for the European Championship.”
Low also spoke on the Bundesliga title race, which he believes could be very competitive once again this season.
Bayern have maintained total dominance of the Bundesliga, winning seven straight titles since Borussia Dortmund claimed back-to-back crowns in 2010-11 and 2011-12.
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Dortmund came close to ending Bayern’s dominance last season, leading the title race during the second half of the campaign, but ultimately fell short despite taking the title fight to the last day of the season.
The runners-up reinforced heavily this summer, bringing back Mats Hummels from Bayern, adding Nico Schulz, as well as exciting attackers Thorgan Hazard and Julian Brandt.
And their summer leaves Low with the impression Dortmund could well challenge Bayern for the title this season.
“I see it as very positive that Dortmund focused on their championship target aggressively and they have strengthened very well,” Low said.
“Mats Hummels - outstanding! Nico Schulz - outstanding! Thorgan Hazard - very good! Julian Brandt as well. Dortmund have reinforced very well and are a serious competitor for Bayern."
Bayern opened their league campaign with a 2-2 draw with Hertha on the strength of two Robert Lewandowski goals and confirmed they have reached an agreement with Barcelona over a loan of Philippe Coutinho for the season.
Meanwhile, Dortmund kick off their Bundesliga season hosting Augsburg on Saturday.
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