While the Bundesliga might have watched its reputation become increasingly stale over the past decade, there was certainly a stunning changing of the guard among Germany’s elite.
Watching Bayer Leverkusen embark on a sensational fairytale as they were crowned Bundesliga champions for the first time, Germany’s top-flight now have a heavyweight title scrap on their hands.
With Bayern Munich eventually forced to settle for a third-place finish last season after enduring a public domestic struggle under Thomas Tuchel, the German icons get a new era underway following the shock arrival of ex-Burnley boss Vincent Kompany.
Ahead of what looks set to be another thriller from the top of the Bundesliga table this year, we have taken a look at the two leading candidates and the European superstars that will be spearheading their respective title charges.
Bayer Leverkusen
Although Bayer Leverkusen might have suffered major Europa League final heartbreak in Dublin on May 22nd as they fell to a 3-0 defeat at the hands of Italian outfit Atalanta, Xabi Alonso’s men enjoyed a famous fairytale last season.
Tearing up the records book and underling their reputation as Europe’s ultimate surprise package, the German high-flyers cruised their way to a maiden Bundesliga crown as they also earned the title of ‘invincibles’.
Managing to keep hold of Alonso amidst real speculation that the one-time Liverpool midfielder could replace Jurgen Klopp at Anfield, the Spanish tactician has established himself as one of Europe’s hottest managerial stars and is fully focused on proving Leverkusen’s fairytale was not just a one-off.
Completing a famous domestic silverware sweep last season and looking to add another trophy to their ever-growing cabinet this weekend when they meet Stuttgart in the German Super Cup, Leverkusen will simply be looking to carry on from where they left off back in May.
Key Player – Florian Wirtz
Crowned as the Bundesliga’s Player…
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Author : Tom Dunstan
Publish date : 2024-08-12 09:02:45
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