Negatives of Hinrunde
The biggest negative is how precarious the situation is regarding the title. Bayern have been better than Leverkusen defensively and offensively this season. Xabi Alonso’s side took a while to get going, yet — the lead is only four points, with Bayern having to play them away from home next month.
Had Bayern won the clash at the Allianz Arena, like they should have — they would be seven points clear. Meanwhile, Leverkusen have beaten the three other teams Bayern have dropped points to (albeit, two of them were with home advantage). Although you would have taken this lead - it could, and probably should, be more substantial.
Otherwise, the injuries have been the most frustrating part of the season. We have not seen summer signing Hiroko Ito play a single time, nor Josip Stanisic on his return to the club from his loan at Leverkusen.
Meanwhile, Joao Palhinha has now been out for two months and counting, whilst Sacha Boey’s season has been stop-start, at best. Bayern are going to need their squad for the business end of the season and will need to rely on these guys.
Overall, a very good start to the season. (Stats courtesy: Sofascore)