In this article, CandyGoal dives into whether Bayer Leverkusen can realistically challenge and win the Bundesliga this campaign. The short answer? Yes—but it will take near perfection. Let’s unpack the strengths, hurdles, and what must go right for Leverkusen to lift the Meisterschale again.
Where things stand: recent history and current context
Leverkusen lifted their first-ever Bundesliga title in the 2023-24 season in dominant fashion, going unbeaten through many stretches and establishing themselves as a genuine force. But 2024-25 belonged to Bayern Munich, who reclaimed the crown with a comfortable margin. Leverkusen ended second, but were well behind Bayern—an indication that while they have title credentials, there’s still a gap to close.
As of the early 2025-26 season, many predictions and betting markets still list Bayern Munich as favorites to win again, with Leverkusen among the nearest challengers, alongside Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig.
What gives Leverkusen a chance
Here are the key areas where Leverkusen can make—or have already made—progress, giving them a shot at the title.
Squad quality & depth
Leverkusen have a strong mix of youth and experience. Players like Victor Boniface, Florian Wirtz (when fit), Patrik Schick, Nathan Tella, Ezequiel Fernández, Loïc Badé and others give them attacking punch and defensive solidity. Their average squad age is decent (mid-20s), which helps with energy and consistency.
They also made a managerial change early in the 2025-26 season: after letting go of Erik ten Hag, they appointed Kas.
Recent resilience and big moments
Leverkusen have shown mental toughness in some crucial matches. For example, they came from behind to win 4-3 at Stuttgart in March 2025, scoring late goals to narrow the gap on Bayern. That kind ofand clutch performance matters in a title race.
They also managed wins under adversity (e.g. playing with reduced numbers) and snatched points in tight games, which shows their capability to grind results. uters)
Tactical flexibility & youth
With a mix of young, dynamic players and experienced ones, plus decent depth in many positions, Leverkusen can rotate when needed. Their ability to adapt in games—pressing, defending compact, counter-attack—is a plus, especially given the long season with multiple competitions.
What stands against Leverkusen
To assess whether Leverkusen can win, we must look at the obstacles—those that must be mitigated if they are to overtake the favorite(s).
Bayern Munich’s dominance & depth
Bayern remain the benchmark in the Bundesliga. They have size, experience, proven leaders, a habit of winning, and the mentality that few other teams can match. Their squad is deep, often capable of winning even when key players are injured or out of form. Predictions and betting odds reflect that ongoing advantage.
Injuries & consistency
Leverkusen need their core players healthy. Florian Wirtz, for instance, has been recovering from injuries; without him, the creative spark is lessened. If multiple starters are missing or the team lacks continuity, mistakes creep in. Also, draws and slip-ups in “easier” matches can cost dearly. Leverkusen have had a few home draws or games where scoring was difficult, which hindered their ability to keep pace.
Managerial change adjustment
The switch. Early matches showed promise (e.g. a win with nine men), but long term, these shifts can introduce instability.
Other challengers & schedule demands
Not only Bayern are in the hunt. Dortmund, Leipzig, Frankfurt (depending on form) will all demand points. Also, Champions League and cup competitions add fixture congestion. Squad rotation matters, or injuries mount. Leverkusen must manage across all fronts.
Key scenarios: what must Leverkusen do to make it happen
For Leverkusen to win the Bundesliga, these are the scenarios and “must-haves”:
Strong start and few dropped points early
If they start slow or drop too many points vs mid-table clubs, they’ll need Bayern to slip badly—risky.
Win direct matches vs Bayern / main rivals
Those six-pointer games matter more than many think. Winning head-to-head gives both buffer and psychological edge.
Maintain fitness and rotation
Keep injuries minimal, rotate smartly, have quality subs. Depth is key in managing the season.
Consistency—especially at home
Avoid draws or losses at BayArena. Home fortress mentality helps with goal difference, momentum, fan energy.
Strong defensive discipline
Matching Bayern’s goals from open play and set-pieces is hard; minimizing defensive errors, conceding cheaply, or soft goals will kill hopes.
Mental toughness under pressure
When the title race tightens, teams crack. Leverkusen’s ability to stay focused in pressure moments, rebound after setbacks, that will be decisive.
Outlook: probability & predictions
- Many experts still give Bayern the edge: they are still favorites in most predictions and sportsbooks. Leverkusen are seen as serious challengers, but not the default winners.
- If current form improves under Hjulmand, Leverkusen could close the gap, especially if Bayern falters in form or has injury issues.
- Bottom line: Leverkusen can win the Bundesliga, but they are underdogs. It’s possible, not guaranteed.
Conclusion
Can Leverkusen win Bundesliga this season? Yes—they absolutely have the players, infrastructure, and recent momentum to be in the race. But they will need near perfection: few mistakes, strong head-to-head performances, optimal fitness, and not letting Bayern pull away early.
For fans of Leverkusen, the season promises excitement. For neutrals, their challenge to Bayern could be one of the Bundesliga’s most thrilling storylines. CandyGoal will continue to track match results, injuries, and form swings—stay tuned.
Do you want a match-by-match prediction of Leverkusen’s remaining fixtures or a comparison of their goal stats vs Bayern to see how big the gap is?
