Football Season Guide

Bayern Munchen lifted a record seventh straight Bundesliga title last season but it glossed over a difficult campaign for the Bavarians who at one time were struggling to get into the top four but a late upsurge in form helped see off Borussia Dortmund's challenge to lift the trophy. The defending champions have endured a frustrating transfer window so far, having let go a number of players who were regulars in the match squad and there have been very few arrivals. Franck Ribery and Arjen Robben have been the biggest names leaving the club while utility man Rafinha and Mats Hummels have also been let go as Bayern look to bring down the age of the squad. So far Bayern have only managed to improve their central defensive options, bringing in Benjamin Pavard and Lucas Hernandez, with the latter arriving as the biggest purchase ever by the German club. Bayern have also decided not to convert James Rodriguez's loan into a permanent move and coupled with Ribery and Robben's departures, they are looking a bit light in the creative department. Star striker Robert Lewandowski has publicly criticized Bayern's transfer policy, especially after their pursuit of Leroy Sane ended with the Manchester City winger picking up a long term injury. With Rafinha gone, Bayern will also need to bring in cover for Joshua Kimmich at right back. Bayern looked far from their dominating best under Niko Kovac last season and they have been given an early warning shot by rivals Dortmund who easily secured the win in the Super Cup. Unless Bayern become more active and bring in more players before the end of the transfer window, their dominance in domestic football faces a real threat this season.