2 VfL Wolfsburg vs 3 FC Bayern München
Bayern Munich begins Bundesliga campaign in trip to Wolfsburg.
As Wolfsburg aims to build on last season's dramatic escape under Ralph Hasenhüttl, they face a formidable challenge from a revamped Bayern Munich, now under Vincent Kompany, in an eagerly anticipated Bundesliga opener at the Volkswagen Arena.
VfL Wolfsburg
Wolfsburg are looking to shake off the frustrations of last season as they prepare to launch a new Bundesliga campaign. After spending much of last year battling with relegation, a late turnaround under Ralph Hasenhüttl, who took charge with just eight games left, helped secure their safety.
Hasenhüttl’s arrival saw Wolfsburg win four of those crucial matches, ultimately finishing 12th and ensuring their survival. Now, with a full pre-season under his belt, Hasenhüttl aims to kick off the season with a win, continuing the club’s trend of strong season openers, having won six of their last nine.
Wolfsburg haven’t drawn any of their last 12 competitive matches, recording five wins and seven losses. However, a tough test awaits as they prepare to face Bayern Munich.
A 3—4—3 formation is expected from Ralph Hasenhüttl, with Lovro Majer and Patrick Wimmer teaming up with Jonas Wind in attack. Meanwhile, Lukas Nmecha will be a big miss for the Wolves after being sidelined with a thigh injury. Kevin Paredes is also 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, with a shocking third-place finish on the final day of the season ensuring Thomas Tuchel's exit.
New boss Vincent Kompany has stepped into the managerial role despite leading Burnley to relegation in the Premier League in the 2023–24 season, a decision that raised many eyebrows. 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. Leverkusen has already established 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.
Additionally, 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 subplot, 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 formation 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].
Team form
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Team Comparison
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