In the highly anticipated curtain-raiser of the 2025–26 Bundesliga season, reigning champions Bayern Munich are set to host RB Leipzig at the iconic Allianz Arena this Friday evening. The clash marks not only the beginning of a new campaign but also a symbolic moment for both clubs—one looking to extend its dominance under a rejuvenated regime, the other desperate to reclaim its place among Germany’s elite after a disappointing season. Bayern, under the stewardship of Vincent Kompany, enters the match with renewed confidence, having reclaimed the Bundesliga crown last term in emphatic fashion. Kompany’s tactical acumen and leadership helped the Bavarians finish 13 points clear of Bayer Leverkusen, who had dethroned them the previous year. Meanwhile, Leipzig’s seventh-place finish marked a significant downturn in their trajectory, as they missed out on European qualification for the first time in nine seasons—a sobering reality for a club that had grown accustomed to continental competition.
The 2023–24 season had seen Bayern’s decade-long dominance come to an end, snapping a streak of 11 consecutive titles. That brief lapse, however, proved to be a catalyst for change. Kompany’s arrival brought a fresh philosophy and a renewed sense of urgency. The result was a commanding campaign in which Bayern amassed 82 points—ten more than the previous season—and reclaimed their throne with authority. Their attacking prowess was particularly noteworthy, as they netted 99 goals in the league, equaling their second-highest tally since the 1972–73 season. This offensive explosion was driven by a dynamic front line and a midfield that consistently dictated tempo and created chances. Kompany’s system emphasized fluidity, pressing, and vertical movement, allowing Bayern to overwhelm opponents with both precision and pace.
Despite their domestic success, Bayern’s summer was a mixed bag. Their journey in the Club World Cup ended prematurely with a quarter-final defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in July—a result that exposed some defensive vulnerabilities and raised questions about their ability to compete on the global stage. However, they bounced back with a morale-boosting 2–1 victory over Stuttgart in the German Super Cup on August 16. That win not only added silverware to their cabinet but also served as a statement of intent heading into the new season. The match itself was a tightly contested affair, with Bayern creating several chances but also conceding opportunities that required goalkeeper Manuel Neuer to be at his best. The veteran shot-stopper made four crucial saves, underscoring his enduring value to the team even as he approaches the twilight of his career.
Defensively, Bayern have shown signs of fragility in recent outings. They have failed to keep a clean sheet in their last five competitive matches, a stretch that includes two losses and three wins. While their attacking firepower often compensates for defensive lapses, Kompany will be keen to tighten things at the back, especially with tougher fixtures on the horizon. The end of the 2024–25 season saw Bayern win four of their final five games, but their home form was inconsistent. Although they secured victories in their last two matches at Allianz Arena, they had previously suffered two defeats and a draw in their preceding four home fixtures. This inconsistency could be a concern, particularly against a Leipzig side eager to prove a point.
Leipzig, on the other hand, endured a season of regression. Their final tally of 51 points was 14 fewer than the previous campaign and marked their lowest total since joining the Bundesliga. Offensively, they managed just 53 goals, while conceding 48—figures that represent their worst attacking and second-worst defensive records in top-flight history. The departure of key players, tactical instability, and a lack of cohesion contributed to their decline. The appointment of Ole Werner as head coach is seen as a move to stabilize the club and inject new energy. Werner’s first competitive match in charge came on August 16, when Leipzig defeated Sandhausen 4–2 in the opening round of the DFB-Pokal. While the result was encouraging, it also highlighted defensive issues that need urgent attention.
Leipzig’s recent record against Bayern is uninspiring. In their last four meetings, they have failed to secure a win, suffering two defeats and settling for two draws. Their form at the end of the 2024–25 season was equally troubling, as they went winless in their final five matches, drawing three and conceding three or more goals in three of those games. Werner faces a daunting task in reversing this trend, especially given Leipzig’s poor away form. The team has won just three of their last 18 competitive matches on the road, losing ten—a statistic that underscores their vulnerability outside Red Bull Arena. If Werner is to succeed, he must instill resilience and tactical discipline, particularly in high-pressure environments like Allianz Arena.
Bayern will be without one of their most creative forces, Jamal Musiala, who is sidelined for several months due to a serious ankle injury. His absence is a significant blow, as Musiala’s vision, dribbling, and ability to unlock defenses have been central to Bayern’s attacking strategy. In his place, Michael Olise is expected to assume the number 10 role. Olise, known for his flair and technical ability, will be tasked with linking midfield and attack, providing service to the forwards, and contributing goals himself. The attacking trio is likely to feature Luis Diaz and Serge Gnabry on the flanks, with Harry Kane leading the line. Kane, who joined Bayern with high expectations, will be eager to open his account and set the tone for a prolific season.
Defensively, Bayern have bolstered their ranks with the acquisition of Jonathan Tah, who has quickly formed a partnership with Dayot Upamecano. The duo offers a blend of physicality, aerial prowess, and composure, and will be stationed in front of Neuer to anchor the backline. In midfield, Joshua Kimmich and Leon Goretzka are expected to start, providing a balance of defensive cover and forward thrust. Kimmich’s passing range and tactical intelligence make him a linchpin, while Goretzka’s box-to-box energy adds dynamism.
Leipzig, meanwhile, are adjusting to life without Benjamin Sesko, who was sold to Manchester United earlier this month. His departure leaves a void in attack, but Lois Openda is poised to step into the role of lead striker. Openda’s pace, movement, and finishing ability make him a dangerous threat, especially on the counter. Supporting him in midfield could be Xavi Simons, who may be deployed in a more advanced role to exploit spaces and create chances. Nicolas Seiwald and Xaver Schlager are likely to provide the midfield backbone, offering defensive stability and transitional play.
At the back, Leipzig will rely on the experienced pairing of Castello Lukeba and Willi Orban. The duo has been a fixture in the team’s defense and will be tasked with containing Bayern’s potent attack. Their positioning, communication, and ability to read the game will be crucial in limiting Kane’s influence and preventing overloads from the wings. Leipzig’s defensive setup will need to be compact and disciplined, with full-backs expected to support both defensively and offensively.
As the two sides prepare to face off, the match promises to be a compelling encounter filled with tactical intrigue, individual battles, and the ever-present drama of top-tier football. Bayern will look to assert their dominance early and send a message to the rest of the league, while Leipzig will aim to defy expectations and begin their redemption arc with a statement performance. The Allianz Arena will be buzzing with anticipation, and fans across Germany will be watching closely as the Bundesliga embarks on another thrilling chapter.
