Thomas Muller says Bayern Munich "can deal with a kick up the arse" from coach Carlo Ancelotti if the situation demands it.
Ancelotti took over from Pep Guardiola in the summer and started his reign in Bavaria with eight straight wins in all competitions, but they suffered their first defeat under the Italian last week with a 1-0 loss at Atletico Madrid in the Champions League and could only draw 1-1 against Cologne in the Bundesliga at the weekend.
Reflecting on Ancelotti's calmer demeanour in comparison to Guardiola, Muller told kicker: "Of course, the way Ancelotti acts in moments of crisis is good and positive, because it prevents unrest and makes the team stronger, but when it's necessary, our team can deal with a kick up the arse. It's all about finding the right mix."
After a run of two games without a win, captain Philipp Lahm and goalkeeper Manuel Neuer both complained the Bavarians have lacked full commitment in recent games, with suggestions that Bayern are easing off under Ancelotti after three high-intensity seasons with Guardiola.
Asked about Bayern's poor run of form, Muller said: "There's no danger of us slacking but we must stay focused.
"As professionals you always have to perform to the top of your ability. FC Bayern sets the highest targets every season, so we cannot allow that to happen.
"I definitely do not sense that we lack motivation. We were all annoyed after the 1-1 draw against Cologne because only drawing at home is not up to standard. We are annoyed, but a point tally of 16 after six games doesn't really indicate we are taking a creative break. Or do you see it differently?
"You can only judge by the results, and these were very good -- apart from the last couple of games. The next few matches will provide a clearer answer."