Bundesliga 2024-25 season: All that you need to know
The upcoming Bundesliga season is set to be a thrilling one, with Bayer Leverkusen looking to defend their historic title. Last season, Leverkusen broke Bayern Munich's dominant streak of 11 consecutive titles, by completing an unbeaten league campaign. Despite their struggles last year, Bayern are entering the new season as favorites once again. The action begins on Friday when Xabi Alonso's Leverkusen face Borussia Monchengladbach. Here's everything you need to know.
Bayern Munich's new era under Vincent Kompany
Bayern, the record 33-time champions, have initiated a new era by appointing Vincent Kompany as their manager. Despite his unconventional profile for a Bayern manager, Kompany has shown promise in his initial tenure. His possession-based style of football aligns well with Bayern's identity. This approach was evident during his stints at Anderlecht and Burnley in the Championship. He was off to a solid start with Bayern winning their DFB-Pokal opener.
Bayern Munich strengthen squad with new signings
Under Kompany's leadership, Bayern have welcomed significant new signings this summer. These include Michael Olise and Joao Palhinha, the latter being a player former manager Thomas Tuchel had shown interest in last season. Palhinha is now set to become the most dominant player in front of Bayern's backline since Javi Martinez a decade ago. However, a potential deal for Jonathan Tah from Leverkusen remains uncertain as the two clubs have yet to reach an agreement.
Leverkusen retain key players for title defense
On the other hand, Leverkusen has managed to retain all their key players from their historic unbeaten league campaign. The core group including Florian Wirtz, Granit Xhaka, Jeremie Frimpong and Alex Grimaldo have committed to stay and defend the title under Xabi Alonso's guidance. Additionally, Leverkusen has strengthened their squad with new signings like midfielder Aleix Garcia from Girona, defender Jeanuel Belocian and winger Martin Terrier.
Leverkusen's resilience showcased in German Super Cup
Leverkusen demonstrated their resilience in the recent German Super Cup against VfB Stuttgart, scoring a last-minute equalizer despite being a man down. They eventually triumphed over Stuttgart on penalties to secure the first piece of silverware of the 2024-25 campaign. Last season, they finished 18 points above third-placed Bayern and 17 points ahead of runners-up Stuttgart, showcasing their competitive edge in the league.
Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig are in the mix
Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig are also seen as potential challengers for the German championship. Dortmund, now under the leadership of Nuri Sahin, has been active in the transfer market with new signings like Germany internationals Pascal Gross, Waldemar Anton and Maximilian Beier. Despite losing Dani Olmo, RB Leipzig managed by Marco Rose has retained a strong core group of players including Xavi Simons on loan from Paris Saint-Germain.
Players to watch out for
Bayern's Harry Kane had a defining debut season, scoring 36 Bundesliga goals in 2023-24. Leroy Sane is another vital asset for the Bavarians. He managed 11 assists and 8 goals last season. Leverkusen's Alejandro Grimaldo and Florian Wirtz hold key. Grimaldo led the assists chart last season (13) and scored 10 times with Wirtz managing 11 assists and 11 goals. Leipzig's Lois Openda scored 24 times last season. Benjamin Sesko is another major figure. For Dortmund, Donyell Malen remains crucial.
FC St. Pauli and Holstein Kiel are the promoted teams
FC St. Pauli and Holstein Kiel are the two promoted teams this season. St.Pauli won the Bundesliga 2 title last season. Holstein Kiel, who finished second in Bundesliga 2, make their maiden appearance in Germany's top-flight campaign.
Player focus: Thomas Muller
Thomas Muller is set to surpass Sepp Maier's 473-game record for most Bundesliga appearances by a Bayern player. He can also draw level with the legendary goalkeeper for competitive appearances in Bayern colors on 709 each. He could achieve these records in matchweek 1. Muller is also set to reach 150 Bundesliga goals (149). Muller's experience will be vital for Bayern as he aims to make an impact.
TV listing and streaming in India
Sony Sports Network owns the broadcasting rights in India for the Bundesliga 2024-25 season. The matches can also be live streamed on the SonyLiv app and website in India (paid subscription).
