The former Germany international believes the defender's time at the club has come to an end after he was hauled off after 30 minutes in the clash with Hannover

Former Germany international Stefan Effenberg says he expects Bayern Munich to discard Dante at the end of the season.

The Brazilian defender started Saturday’s 3-1 victory at Hannover, but after being beaten by Hiroshi Kiyotake in the opening goal, he was replaced by striker Robert Lewandowski after 30 minutes by coach Pep Guardiola in a tactical tweak that led to a Xabi Alonso equaliser just three minutes later.

And Effenberg believes the 31-year-old's time at the club is running out.

"Dante’s time at Bayern will come to an end in the summer," he told Sky.

But both Guardiola and Dante played down his withdrawal, insisting the move was tactical as Bayern attempted to break down a resilient opposition that defended in numbers and looked to spring the counter-attack.

"I was a little disappointed, but I understand the coach’s decision," Dante said.

"Why should he have three centre-backs on the pitch when the opposition has eleven players in their own box? We won today and that is most important."

German pundits suggested the cente-back had struggled in his 30 minutes on the field, notably almost giving away the opener when Artur Sobiech seized on a defensive lapse In the 18th minute before Holger Badstuber tracked back to bail the him out.

But sporting director Matthias Sammer leapt to the Brazilian’s defence.

"Dante is a world-class guy and a superb player for us," said Sammer.

"I urge you to judge with him respect. I will stand up against populist criticism, he does not deserve that. The club rate him very highly."

A second-half double from Thomas Muller ensured Bayern emerged with their fifth consecutive Bundesliga victory, leaving them eleven points clear at the top of the table.