Vincent Kompany has admitted Bayern Munich must rediscover their defensive solidity ahead of Sunday’s crucial Bundesliga clash with high flying Hoffenheim, insisting his side “need to find a balance” after a worrying dip in form.
The defending champions have gone two league games without a win for the first time in nearly a year, dropping five points in draws against Köln and a shock loss to Stuttgart. That stumble has seen their once comfortable lead cut to just three points over Borussia Dortmund, heaping pressure on Kompany’s side.
“We don’t like conceding, but we remain the best defence in Germany,” Kompany said, attempting to calm nerves. “We need to find a balance, to do better, but also [remember] that nobody is doing it better than us.” Despite the recent leaks, Bayern have conceded the fewest goals in the division, but the manager acknowledged the need for scrutiny: “We need to look at things… whether it’s down to the number of games or if it’s the structure.”
The Belgian was keen to highlight the other side of the coin, a breathtaking attack that has plundered 74 goals in 20 matches, a Bundesliga record at this stage. “We’ve scored 74 goals. That’s the other side of it. That should be seen as acceptable. It’s not black or white.”
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Bayern received a midweek boost with the news that Serge Gnabry has signed a new contract. “He has a special role, also off the pitch,” Kompany said of the winger, who has six goals and five assists this term.
All eyes will be on Michael Olise, however. The English winger equalled his assist tally from last season (15) in his last outing and is just one behind Thomas Müller’s record for assists after 20 matchdays. He’ll be central to Bayern’s creative spark.
For Hoffenheim, the danger man is veteran striker Andrej Kramaric. The Croatian has haunted Bayern like no other active player, scoring eight Bundesliga goals against them, more than any other. He’s also just become the third highest non German scorer in the league’s history.
Match Prediction: Bayern to Edge a Thriller
History heavily favours the hosts. Bayern have won all three meetings under Kompany, scoring four or more goals each time. But Hoffenheim are in the form of their lives with 42 points, they’re having their best ever Bundesliga season and are the only side to win all five league games in 2026.
This promises goals. Bayern’s record breaking attack meets the division’s second most prolific side. Yet, despite Hoffenheim’s stunning run, the Allianz Arena remains a fortress. Expect Kompany’s men to respond to the pressure with a statement, if nervy, victory to steady their title charge.
Prediction: Bayern Munich 3-2 Hoffenheim
