When it comes to the Bundesliga this season, Bayer Leverkusen seems to be the team to beat, despite Bayern Munich’s busy summer. Patrik Schick has once again shown why Leverkusen is such a force, with the DFL Super Cup providing a hint that last season’s success might not be a fluke. In an intense match against Stuttgart, Leverkusen proved they’re not just a one-hit wonder. Even with a red card and trailing for much of the game, they managed to win after a dramatic late goal by Schick, showcasing their resilience and skill.
Leverkusen’s performance, including their victory in the Super Cup, suggests they’re here to stay at the top. They’ve retained the core of their successful squad from last season and added smart, not flashy, signings. Aleix García, who was crucial for Girona, and other new arrivals like Martin Terrier and Jeanuël Belocian, have been brought in to strengthen the team. The club’s stability is further underscored by the commitment of their coach, Xabi Alonso, who turned down offers from top clubs to stay with Leverkusen.
Bayern Munich’s Challenges
In contrast, Bayern Munich’s summer was marked by significant changes and high-profile transfers. They made bold moves by signing players like Michael Olise and João Palhinha, but faced challenges, including injuries and difficulties in offloading surplus players. The pressure is on new coach Vincent Kompany to deliver results and restore Bayern to their dominant position. The recovery of star striker Harry Kane is seen as crucial for the team’s success.
Borussia Dortmund also had a busy summer, with significant changes in both their squad and management. They’ve invested in experienced players like Serhou Guirassy and Waldemar Anton from Stuttgart, aiming for a strong season after falling short last year. The arrival of Nuri Sahin as coach and the promotion of Lars Ricken to a higher role signal a shift in strategy. However, internal issues and recent controversies could pose challenges for Dortmund’s new era.
Stuttgart, despite losing key players, showed their strength in the Super Cup. Their impressive performance and retention of coach Sebastian Hoeness suggest they’ll be a formidable opponent in the Champions League and the Bundesliga. Meanwhile, RB Leipzig has lost Dani Olmo to Barcelona, but they’ve brought in promising talents like Antonio Nusa and retained Xavi Simons, which helps maintain the league’s competitive edge.
As newly promoted teams like St. Pauli and Holstein Kiel join the Bundesliga, they might not challenge for the top spots but will certainly add excitement and diversity to the league. Leverkusen, with their strong squad and proven track record, looks set to be a major contender this season.
