Bastian Schweinsteiger knows a thing or two about Bayern Munich greatness. As a legendary figure who lifted the Champions League trophy with the club in 2013, his opinion on the club's best carries serious weight. So, when asked to build a combined starting XI from his iconic 2013 treble-winning squad and the current 2026 side under Vincent Kompany, his choices sparked a fascinating debate.

The result was a decisive victory for the old guard. Schweinsteiger's hybrid lineup featured a staggering nine players from the 2013 team, with only two current stars making the cut: Harry Kane and Joshua Kimmich. The legendary core of Manuel Neuer, Philipp Lahm, David Alaba, Jérôme Boateng, Franck Ribéry, Thomas Müller, and Arjen Robben all got the nod, showcasing the enduring legacy of that historic squad.

Some of his selections were particularly intriguing, notably picking the 2026 version of Joshua Kimmich in midfield over his 2013 self—a characteristically humble move from the German legend. Fans might also debate the inclusion of Dante over a current defender like Dayot Upamecano, or whether Michael Olisé's current form could challenge Arjen Robben's spot.

This exercise highlights the incredible standard set by that 2013 team, a benchmark for every Bayern side that follows. While the current squad boasts its own world-class talent, Schweinsteiger's lineup is a powerful reminder of a truly golden era. It makes you wonder: how would your combined XI look? The debate is half the fun.