Bayer Leverkusen’s Historically Successful Bundesliga Campaign
Leverkusen vs Bayern:Â The world of football was given a breath of fresh air when Bayer Leverkusen won the title last season in the Bundesliga, and what a record-breaking victory it was. Bayern Munich had ruled the German league for so long that this triumph made people believe there would be more competition in the future. As we prepare for the 2024-25 season, everybody wonders whether they can defend their championship or if Bayern Munich will take back their throne.
Bayern Munich’s reaction to last year’s failure
Despite not doing very well during the previous campaign, Bayern Munich are still the favorites to win the Bundesliga this time. The 33-time champions have undergone significant changes within their squad and management structure, which shows that they mean business again. None of those changes, however, come close to being as important as appointing Vincent Kompany as senior coach – even though he lacks experience at such a level, everyone seems impressed with what he has done so far.
Possession-based style of play – these are just a few words that could describe Kompany’s football philosophy, which suits teams like Anderlecht or Burnley, where he had been before joining Bayern, perfectly fine. Moreover, the club from Allianz Arena brought in a couple of new faces who should strengthen positions where needed most, i.e., Michael Olise (midfield) and Joao Palhinha (midfield), the player who, Cheltenham boss Thomas Tuchel poorly wanted, among others, but now looks set become an extraordinary midfield talent reminiscent those seen during times Javi Martinez played here a few years ago.
Leverkusen’s Stability And Tactical Changes
Meanwhile, Leverkusen kept all key players responsible for last season’s success together and added several reinforcements that may prove crucial during upcoming battles. For example, Florian Wirtz extended his contract until 2027, Granit Xhaka until 2026, and Jeremie Frimpong and Alex Grimaldo signed new deals. Under coach Xabi Alonso, this group seems to be ready to defend their championship title in the best possible way.
Leverkusen vs Bayern: Apart from that, the management team has brought a few more players on board who seem to fit perfectly into Alonso’s plans for the next campaign: Aleix Garcia arrived from Girona and should complement nicely with Xhaka at the central midfield position; Jeanuel Belocian can strengthen our defense line if necessary; Martin Terrier might give us some extra firepower up front whenever required.
The task awaiting Leverkusen
Nevertheless, I don’t think Leverkusen can count on so many last-minute goals in one season again, even though their team still looks strong. In 2023-24, they finished 18 points above third-placed Bayern Munich and 17 ahead of Stuttgart, who came second. This was such a dominant display, but it will be tough to repeat such an achievement.
Dortmund’s New Chapter With Nuri Sahin
As for Borussia Dortmund, managed by Nuri Sahin now, last season’s fifth-place finish in the Bundesliga and reaching the Champions League final were not enough. So
Sahin comes to Dortmund with less experience than others, but he does provide a different perspective. The club has been busy in the transfer market, bringing in some big names such as Pascal Gross, Waldemar Anton, and Maximilian Beier—all German internationals. Yan Couto from Manchester City and Serhou Guirassy from Stuttgart also add depth to the ranks. At the same time, the latter’s impressive goal-scoring record in the Bundesliga last season could make him critical for Dortmund following Niclas Fullkrug’s departure to West Ham.
He will integrate these players into a new team capable of challenging Bayern Munich or Bayer Leverkusen, which was crowned champions last term under Hansi Flick. Sahin cannot rely on moments of brilliance from individuals as his predecessor did so with Jadon Sancho sold, too. Instead, he should adopt a possession-based approach that can dominate.
Summary: Leverkusen vs Bayern
The 2024/25 Bundesliga campaign promises to be one of the most competitive. Not only do we have a resurgent Bayern Munich looking to reclaim their crown from Leverkusen, but there is also an entirely revamped Borussia Dortmund under Sahin. However, Leverkusen is still a favorite because it has kept the majority together while bringing reinforcements where necessary, giving themselves another great chance at retaining the title. However, given Bayern’s desire not just to win back what they feel belongs to them but also to solidify dominance over the rest, coupled with Sahin’s determination to take the club to the next level, it means anyone’s guess how things pan out, this year, which makes it all very exciting indeed!
