Bayern Munich, already eight points clear at the top of the Bundesliga after 13 games, look set to welcome back lightning-fast wing-back Alphonso Davies this weekend.

Davies made a brief appearance off the bench during Bayern’s 3-1 home Champions League win over Sporting Lisbon on Tuesday. Now included in the squad for Sunday’s home clash with rock-bottom Mainz, the Canada captain is poised to play his first Bundesliga match since tearing his ACL on international duty in March.

Thanks to Bayern’s blistering form—dropping just two points in the league so far—coach Vincent Kompany has the luxury of easing Davies back into the starting XI. After the Lisbon match, Davies shared on social media: “Good to be back doing what I love the most.”

Officially a wing-back, the 25-year-old regularly surges forward, posing a constant attacking threat. Defensively, his incredible pace allows Bayern to maintain a high line—Kompany’s preferred system—while Davies chases down potential counter-attacks with ease.

Bayern midfielder Joshua Kimmich credited Davies’ dedication during rehab for his speedy return. “It was a difficult time for him, but he’s always brought positive energy. The way he went through his rehab was exemplary and outstanding. He gives us a lot on and off the pitch,” Kimmich said.

Further good news came on Wednesday as Jamal Musiala is on track for a January return, likely in a friendly against Red Bull Salzburg before the season resumes. Long-term absentee Hiroki Ito is also getting minutes, giving Bayern more rotation options across league, cup, and European fixtures.

Bayern sporting director Max Eberl confirmed that the return of key players reduces the need for January signings. “More players are coming back. Our transfers are coming from within. We’ll essentially have three new signings,” Eberl said.

Sunday’s opponents Mainz have struggled this season, winning just once and sitting five points from safety. Newly appointed coach Urs Fischer, formerly of Union Berlin, will make his league debut, tasked with steadying the team and lifting them off the bottom of the table.

One to Watch: Said El Mala (Cologne)

Cologne’s teenage winger Said El Mala has impressed in his first Bundesliga season. Called up to the Germany squad in November, El Mala has five goals and two assists in his last eight league matches. His speed and finishing will be key when Cologne faces derby rivals Bayer Leverkusen on Sunday.

Leverkusen coach Kasper Hjulmand highlighted the threat: “Super player. Very fast in transitions. El Mala has been doing very well. We need to play our own game and press very fast—we know the qualities El Mala and Cologne’s other forwards have.”

Key Stats:

49 – Bayern have scored more goals than any other team in Europe’s top five leagues.

10 – Harry Kane’s hat-trick against Stuttgart last week marked his 10th Bundesliga goal.

1 – Mainz’s only league win this season came back in September.