Bayern Munich begins Bundesliga campaign in trip to Wolfsburg.

2024-09-15

As VfL Wolfsburg hosts Bayern Munich at the Volkswagen Arena, Ralph Hasenhüttl aims to start the Bundesliga season strong against a formidable opponent, while Vincent Kompany embarks on his Bayern managerial debut with the pressure of reclaiming the title on his shoulders.

VfL Wolfsburg

Wolfsburg are eager to leave the frustrations of last season behind as they prepare for a new Bundesliga campaign. Much of last year was spent battling relegation, but a late turnaround under Ralph Hasenhüttl, who stepped in with just eight games left, helped secure their safety. Hasenhüttl’s influence saw Wolfsburg win four vital matches, finishing 12th and ensuring their survival.

With the benefit of a full pre-season, Hasenhüttl is focused on starting this season with a victory. This aligns with Wolfsburg’s trend of strong season openers, having won six of their last nine [6W, 2D, 1L]. Notably, Wolfsburg haven’t drawn any of their last 12 competitive matches, achieving five wins and seven losses in that period.

A challenging encounter against Bayern Munich awaits them. A 3-4-3 formation is anticipated, featuring Lovro Majer and Patrick Wimmer partnering with Jonas Wind in attack. However, Wolfsburg will be without Lukas Nmecha, sidelined due to a thigh injury, and Kevin Paredes, who is out with a foot injury.

FC Bayern München

Bayern Munich are determined to reclaim the Bundesliga title after their 11-year reign came to an end last season. It took an extraordinary, unbeaten run by Bayer Leverkusen to unseat the Bavarians after a shocking third-place finish on the final day of the season, which ensured Thomas Tuchel was shown the exit.

New boss, Vincent Kompany, slipped into the managerial seat despite leading Burnley to relegation in the Premier League in the 2023–24 season, a decision that left many eyelids batting. Only once has Bayern gone two consecutive seasons without winning the Bundesliga since 1996/97.

While aware of the record, the former City player will certainly be under immense pressure on his Bundesliga debut, having seen Leverkusen establish a head start with a hard-fought 3-2 win over Gladbach in Friday’s opener. However, with a 13-game unbeaten opening day run in place [10W, 2D, 0L], Kompany wouldn't be too worried.

In addition, Bayern have scored in each of their last 36 encounters against Wolfsburg, while picking up 18 victories in 20 meetings against the hosts [18W, 2D, 0L]. In another sub-plot, Thomas Müller could break the club’s all-time Bundesliga appearance record should he feature on Sunday in what would be his 474th game for Bayern Munich.

A 4—2—3—1 with Harry Kane in attack is expected. New signing Michael Olise could make his Bundesliga debut against Wolfsburg. Meanwhile, Vincent Kompany will be without Hiroki Itō [ankle injury] and Leroy Sané [groin injury].