As the start date for the latest Bundesliga season fast approaches, there’s one question that looms over German football: Can anyone stop Bayern Munich this time?
After predictably clinching another title last season, Bayern enter the new campaign as the overwhelming favourites. The odds reflect a familiar narrative: one dominant team, and a chasing back hoping – rather than expecting – to break the cycle.
However, it was only a little over a year ago when Bayer Leverkusen not just won the title, but they did it with a historic unbeaten run across the season, making them the only team to complete all 34 games in the Bundesliga without defeat. Could the odds be upset again this season?
Why Bayern Are Heavy Favourites Once Again
When analysing the latest Bundesliga odds, it’s no surprise to see Bayern Munich priced at 2/7 to win the league again. The Bavarian giants have won 12 of the last 13 Bundesliga titles, and the lack of a serious challenger on paper is why their odds are so short.
The club blends its ruthless consistency with financial power and world-class talent. They did lose Jamal Musiala to a serious injury, but other key players like Harry Kane, Joshua Kimmich, Michael Olise, and Manuel Neuer remain central to their plans. The squad has also been bolstered with the arrivals of Luis Diaz and Jonathan Tah.
Their squad depth is unmatched in the league. Add in their ability to dominate possession and dictate tempo, and Bayern are a formidable side over a 34-game season. Head coach Vincent Kompany still has his doubters, but it seems his credentials will be more closely scrutinised in the Champions League rather than domestically.
Who Are the Challengers?
Bayern remain the benchmark. However, there’s still hope – even if meagre – in the chasing pack. Here are the top contenders based on the odds:
- Bayer Leverkusen: Coming into the season at 7/1, the odds reflect recent changes at Leverkusen. Legendary manager Xabi Alonso left for Real Madrid. Key players like Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Granit Xhaka, and Jonathan Tah are gone. Ultimately, they’re in a transitional period, and they’re unlikely to put up a serious challenge.
- Borussia Dortmund: Priced at 19/2, Dortmund is far from the side that went back-to-back in the Bundesliga in 2011 and 2012. However, they remain one of the biggest sides in German football. Plus, if Jobe Bellingham can replicate brother Jude’s previous form at the club, they could push Bayern close again.
- RB Leipzig: Leipzig are further out at 16/1, but their exciting attacking style makes them capable of stringing together winning runs. They’ve added some exciting talents to the side, although the departure of key forward Benjamin Sesko will hurt.
- Eintracht Frankfurt: Fancy a long shot? Eintracht Frankfurt currently stand at 50/1. They might lack the depth to challenge across a full season. They’ve also lost a key striker of their own in Hugo Ekitike. Although if everything clicks, they could emerge as dark horses… for a Champions League place.
Bayern Munich begin the 25/26 season as clear favourites – and rightfully so. Yet football remains unpredictable. A few major injuries here, a few surprising runs there, and suddenly, momentum in the title race can quickly change.
