While Bayern Munich is the clear betting favorite to win the Bundesliga this season, Didi Hamann exercised caution with that notion.
“It will definitely be a lot closer than it looked when Uli Hoeneß made that statement (captured here by Bavarian Football Works). They are only four points ahead and Bayern have to go to Leverkusen in February,” Hamann told Bild (as captured by Tz). “I expect it to be a neck-and-neck race until the last matchday.
One of the reasons that Hamann thinks Bayern Munich will not be able to runaway with the league is because of the multitude of open contract situations going on at the moment. With so many key players trying to negotiate new deals, Hamann thinks focus could be an issue.
“If (Musiala) extends his contract beyond 2026, that would be a strong signal that could trigger another boost. But it’s not likely to happen any time soon,” said Hamann. “So the issue could also become a burden, just like the other expiring contracts. (Bayern) have maneuvered ourselves into a situation that could cause unrest.”
It remains to be seen what happens with the players in question. Jamal Musiala, Alphonso Davies, Joshua Kimmich, Thomas Müller, Manuel Neuer, and Leroy Sané are all going to be talk about new contracts in the coming weeks.
Clearly, the potential for a distraction is there, but new deals could also provide a boost to the squad as those matters get settled. Regardless, Bayer Leverkusen appears ready to mount a strike toward the top of the table…and Bayern Munich will need to be ready to face that charge.
Looking for some discussion on Bayern Munich’s loan situation, its free agent class, and which wingers Bayern should look at in the coming weeks and months? Great, then check out Bavarian Podcast Works — Weekend Warm-up Show on Patreon, Spotify, and below:
Also, be sure to stay tuned to Bavarian Podcast Works for all of your up to date coverage on Bayern Munich and Germany. Check us out on Patreon and follow us on Twitter @BavarianFBWorks, @BavarianPodcast @TheBarrelBlog, @BFWCyler, @2012nonexistent, @TommyAdams71 and more.
