Football Season Guide

Bayern Munchen endured their worst league campaign in nearly 15 years as they failed to defend their league title for the first time in 12 seasons, finishing third while also failing to secure a trophy. Bayern were desperate to get in Xabi Alonso as the permanent replacement for Tuchel but with the Bayer coach confirming he will be staying on, they have brought in Vincent Kompany despite the Belgian having been in charge of a relegated Burnley last season. Bayern have been very busy in the transfer market this season with Palhinha and Olise two of their biggest outlays as they look to improve their attack and the midfield. Hiroki Ito has also been signed from Stuttgart to boost their defense, though he will not be available for the opening games due to an injury, while Stanisic's loan at Bayer Leverkusen has ended and the defender is expected to have a role in the squad. There have been a couple of big departures though with de Ligt and Mazraoui both being sold to Manchester United despite opposition from the fans. Choupo-Moting and Bouna Sarr have left at the end of their contracts while Bayern have converted Zaragoza's loan into a permanent deal only to send him out on loan to Osasuna. Injuries were a major problem for Bayern once again last season and the club will be hoping to fare better on that front this time around. The arrival of Olise will improve the attack, especially with Coman having struggled with injuries in the last couple of campaigns, while Palhinha will provide some much needed steel in the midfield. Bayern's season will depend on whether Kompany will be able to make the step up to one of the biggest clubs in Europe though they do have a squad that should challenge for multiple trophies this season.