Bayern Munich boost as Aleksandar Pavlovic injury worry eases

The Germany head coach said Pavlovic felt "a bit of calf problems" and stressed that his half-time substitution had been taken as "a precautionary measure".

Nagelsmann has said there is no concern over lasting damage, offering Bayern Munich reassurance ahead of a crucial run of fixtures. The victory, one of Germany's most dominant performances of their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, also served as revenge for their 2-0 defeat to the same opponents in Bratislava back in September.

Pavlovic impressed during a commanding first half, completing all five of his long passes with 100 percent accuracy and helping Germany seize control as they scored four times before the break.

The 20-year-old made way for Borussia Dortmund's Felix Nmecha at half-time, but his calm display once again underlined his growing importance for both club and country.

Germany's win followed a functional but unconvincing 2-0 result away to Luxembourg a few days earlier, but the response against Slovakia showed renewed confidence and precision across the pitch, securing direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup.

Bayern Munich now turn their attention to Saturday's Bundesliga match against SC Freiburg before a major Champions League test the following midweek at Arsenal.

Pavlovic began the season managing various fitness setbacks, yet his influence has grown significantly, and Bayern expect him to be fully fit for the challenges ahead.