Bayern's quiet overhaul complete as Germans eye European crown

LISBON – A year ago Bayern Munich had narrowly emerged as champions in one of the tightest Bundesliga title races, and ended up overhauling their ageing squad as veterans Franck Ribery, Arjen Robben and Rafinha left.

Fast forward 12 months and a leaner, stronger and faster Bayern are not only German league and Cup winners again but they produced one of the most remarkable displays in European soccer on Friday as they obliterated five-time European champions Barcelona 8-2 to reach the Champions League semi-finals.

Fluid in their movements and with an indefatigable desire to attack, Hansi Flick's team looks like it has been forged together over years of training. Yet many of the elements of their success, including Flick, who took over a struggling Bayern in November, are new. Following the departure of central defender Mats Hummels and serious early season injuries to defenders Niklas Suele and new signing Lucas Hernandez, defensive plans had to be redrawn.

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