FC Bayern’s 2026 Strategy: A Crucial Decision-Making Year
FC Bayern Munich is gearing up for an intense second half of the season. The team will face VfL Wolfsburg this Sunday, marking a significant start after just a brief preparation period. Their training included a notable 5-0 victory in a friendly against Red Bull Salzburg. However, the team will contend with cold temperatures, forecasted to reach between -8 to -9 degrees Celsius.
Key Challenges Ahead for FC Bayern in 2026
Under the leadership of coach Vincent Kompany, Bayern aims to maintain their pursuit of the title while striving for a treble. They conclude 2025 on a high note, defeating Heidenheim 4-0, largely thanks to superstar Harry Kane, who has scored 19 goals so far this season.
Potential Records in Sight
- Most points in Bundesliga history: 91 (2018/19).
- Most goals in a single season: 101 (1971/72).
- Harry Kane on track to break Robert Lewandowski’s record of 41 goals in the 2020/21 season.
- Potentially securing the league title earlier than March 27, which would set a new record.
Upcoming Matches and Cup Objectives
In 2026, Bayern is eager to win the DFB-Pokal for the first time since 2020. They face RB Leipzig in the quarter-finals on February 11. Additionally, the Champions League is another focus, where advancing to the knockout stage requires wins against Union Saint-Gilloise and PSV Eindhoven by the end of January.
Contractual Matters and Squad Dynamics
As the season progresses, Bayern must address several key contract situations. Notable players with contracts expiring in June include:
- Manuel Neuer, 39
- Leon Goretzka, 30
- Dayot Upamecano, 27
- Serge Gnabry, 30
- Raphaël Guerreiro, 32
- Sven Ulreich, 37
Discussions around extending Upamecano’s contract are expected, while Goretzka’s future seems uncertain. Christoph Freund, Bayern’s sporting director, acknowledged challenges in managing veteran players with long tenures.
Player Updates
The future of goalkeeper Neuer remains unclear, although he has expressed a positive outlook regarding a potential extension. Meanwhile, the club eagerly anticipates Jamal Musiala’s return after his injury during the Club World Cup in the previous summer. His comeback could impact the dynamics of the team, particularly the positioning of 17-year-old talent Lennart Karl.
Lastly, Joshua Kimmich might be absent due to ongoing ankle problems, but the club remains hopeful for his swift recovery as they navigate this crucial stretch of the season.
