Bundesliga 2025 review: Kane dominance, Karl’s emergence – and a remarkable celebration escape

The German Bundesliga is currently on its winter break, with matches set to resume on January 9. During this period, The Athletic provides a review of the season so far.

Bayern Munich and striker Harry Kane are highlighted as the standout combination of the year, having become inseparable. Kane has evolved into a more versatile and impactful player for Bayern, contributing significantly in attack, midfield, and even defensively. Together, they set the standard in German football, with Bayern scoring 55 goals in the first 15 league games. Kane has been instrumental, scoring 19 Bundesliga goals in 15 appearances, averaging a goal every 62 minutes, and he deservedly won his first league title in May.

Young talent Lennart Karl, aged 17, has made a remarkable rise, becoming a regular for Bayern in the Bundesliga and Champions League after his debut at the Club World Cup. Known for his technical skill and fearless play, he is highly watchable. Other notable young players include Said El Mala (Koln), Yan Diomande (RB Leipzig), and Luka Vuskovic (Hamburg).

Benedict Hollerbach, signed by Mainz to replace Jonny Burkardt, has underperformed so far, with no goals and only one assist in 10 Bundesliga appearances. Despite not playing poorly, he has had limited scoring opportunities, with an expected goals rating of just 0.72. Mainz, currently bottom of the table, need this to change for survival.

Head coach Sandro Wagner is also mentioned in the review.