Five things to watch as Bayern Munich head into new season

3) When will Bayern Munich’s backline stop leaking goals?

If Thomas Muller’s return to form was the highlight of Bayern’s pre-season, then their abysmal defensive record was certainly the lowlight.

For some time now Bayern Munich’s defense has been questionable at best. Particularly when forced to deal with the counter-attack, the Bavarians’ backline just can’t stop leaking goals.

It’s a problem of which many teams across Europe are well aware. Several clubs took advantage of it last season. More recently, however, Borussia Dortmund did the same. By pressing their backline and counter-attacking with pace, the Black-and-Yellows exposed the flaws in Bayern’s defense.

Javi Martinez and Mats Hummels simply don’t have the pace to keep up with Europe’s fastest attackers. Jerome Boateng can’t seem to fight off his lingering injuries (a problem that also plagues Hummels and Martinez, albeit to a lesser extent).

Young Niklas Süle was brought in to give Bayern depth at center-back. However, the German could become a vital part of Bayern’s squad much sooner than expected. He’s surprisingly quick for his massive frame and would bring some much needed pace and energy to the Bayern backline.

Manuel Neuer returns from injury soon as well. While Ulreich has done admirably in the new captain’s stead, Die Roten are more calm and collected when the world’s best goalkeeper is playing between the sticks.

No matter the root of the issue, Carlo Ancelotti has to find the solution soon. If the Italian can’t manage to fix Bayern’s backline problems, he could be facing the same disappointment as last season.