Record champions hunting another record

Most recently, even the biggest German football legend Franz Beckenbauer had to give in: the former Bayern player, coach and president was asked this week how the Munich team could be stopped from claiming their tenth title in succession – and Beckenbauer's answer was as nonchalant as it was unequivocal: "Maybe if Bayern are deducted points because they are too good…" Bayern's 5-1 win away at previously second-placed Bayer 04 Leverkusen demanded to be treated with the highest respect not only from the 76-year-old: "The first half against Leverkusen was a demonstration of perfect football. You could put it in any textbook. I have never seen Bayern play so well. And I'm a tough critic."

In fact, last Sunday in the Rhineland was a demonstration of the sheer power of the team managed by former Hoffenheim coach Julian Nagelsmann – and came just three days after a 4-0 away triumph in the Champions League against Portuguese powerhouse Benfica. And they managed it without Julian Nagelsmann on the sidelines, who now also has to miss out on a first reunion with his former TSG players as Bayern coach. Having fallen ill with Covid-19 despite being double vaccinated, Nagelsmann had to go into quarantine – but unfortunately – from TSG's perspective at least – it does not seem to have affected the quality of the team.

After eight league games, Bayern are top of the table on 19 points and boast an amazing goal difference of +21 (29-8). Their average of more than 3.5 goals per game gives a clear indication of the team's immense attacking power. This includes not only world footballer of the year candidate Robert Lewandowski, but also the reinvigorated Leroy Sané, whose progress under the former TSG coach Nagelsmann has been clear for all to see. In addition, with the new arrivals of Dayot Upamecano or Marcel Sabitzer, Bayern have added immense quality and even more strength in depth to their squad.

The almost logical consequence is that they are the best performing team in the Champions League with three wins in three games, scoring 12 goals without conceding any at the other end, they are top of the Bundesliga, into the 2nd round in the DFB-Pokal – and have suffered only one defeat in a competitive game all season. Munich have passed the test posed by the change on the bench from current German national coach (and also former Hoffenheim coach) Hansi Flick to Julian Nagelsmann with flying colours. And everyone with an interest in German football is wondering when perennial winners Bayern will finally lose their hunger and their drive on their constant hunt for titles. Leroy Sané's recent closing remarks will not have offered much comfort to opposition fans: "When you look over the past few years how hungry the team have always been, even when they have won the title – that is one of our great strengths. And I hope that will never change."

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