Bayern Munich step into the 2025/26 Bundesliga season knowing that Borussia Dortmund, Bayer Leverkusen, and Stuttgart are poised to challenge their supremacy. After a mixed transfer window, the reigning champions’ title defence looks far from straightforward.
Bayern, who have lifted 12 of the last 13 league trophies, endured several setbacks in the summer market. Florian Wirtz chose Liverpool over Munich, and while they signed Luis Diaz, the club lost Thomas Mueller, Leroy Sane, and Eric Dier without fees. Kingsley Coman’s move to Saudi Arabia is nearing completion, Mathys Tel joined Spurs permanently, and Stuttgart refused to release Germany forward Nick Woltemade.
Kimmich Admits Competition is Hard to Predict
Bayern captain Joshua Kimmich told the Bundesliga website that it is difficult to identify their biggest threat this season. “We’ll see who knocks at the top. For us, it will be important to go our own way. We can’t influence what the others will do,” Kimmich said.
Kimmich also expects RB Leipzig to rebound strongly under Jurgen Klopp’s guidance. With no European commitments, Leipzig can fully focus on domestic success. “Leipzig have a good team. Because Leipzig aren’t in European competition, they’ll be able to concentrate on the Bundesliga,” he added.
Leverkusen Enter a New Era
Leverkusen, who have been Bayern’s closest competitors in recent years, have undergone major changes. Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong moved to Liverpool, Granit Xhaka joined the Premier League, and Jonathan Tah signed for Bayern. Xabi Alonso’s exit to Real Madrid saw Erik ten Hag take charge, aiming to reshape the squad quickly.
Dortmund Show Signs of a Comeback
Borussia Dortmund closed last season with a strong surge under Niko Kovac, climbing from 11th to fourth. The addition of Jobe Bellingham will bolster their midfield, with Jamie Gittens’ transfer to Chelsea being the only major departure.
Stuttgart Confident Under Hoeness
Stuttgart, who finished second in 2023/24 and won the German Cup, remain confident. Captain Atakan Karazor believes their coach is the driving force behind their success. “We have a very special team… we’ve got quality players in every position — even some that people haven’t heard of.”
Speaking on Sebastian Hoeness, Karazor added, “An amazing, amazing coach. You can see his handwriting on everything the team does. From the moment he came in, the mindset of the team changed.”
The Bundesliga curtain-raiser, the Franz Beckenbauer Supercup, will see Bayern and Stuttgart face off in a high-stakes early clash.
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