BERLIN, Aug 23 (v7n)- Bayern Munich, after enduring their first trophyless season in 12 years, have made significant moves in the transfer market in a bid to reclaim the Bundesliga title from Xabi Alonso's Bayer Leverkusen. Last season saw Bayern slip to third place, trailing behind Leverkusen and Stuttgart, which ultimately led to the dismissal of coach Thomas Tuchel. After an extensive and challenging coaching search, which saw high-profile names like Xabi Alonso and Julian Nagelsmann turn down the role, Bayern appointed Vincent Kompany. Despite his illustrious playing career, Kompany's managerial credentials were questioned after a difficult season with Burnley that ended in relegation.

With this season's Champions League final set to be held at Munich's Allianz Arena, Bayern has invested heavily to strengthen their squad. Following last year's acquisition of Harry Kane, Bayern again looked to the Premier League, spending a similar amount to bring in forward Michael Olise and midfielder João Palhinha.

Bayern's season opener is against Wolfsburg on Sunday, a team they have dominated for nearly a decade, with Wolfsburg's last victory against Bayern dating back to 2015. Former Bayern chairman Oliver Kahn expressed confidence in the team's ability to bounce back, stating that a year without a title would reignite their competitive spirit.

Leverkusen, under the guidance of Xabi Alonso, will start their title defense on Friday against Borussia Moenchengladbach. Despite their success last season, Alonso played down their chances of being favorites, insisting that Bayern still holds that status.

Borussia Dortmund, last season's Champions League finalists, have undergone significant changes as well. With new coach Nuri Sahin at the helm, Dortmund has bolstered their squad with signings like Serhou Guirassy and Waldemar Anton. Despite a strong run in Europe, Dortmund's domestic performance saw them finish fifth, leading to the departure of Edin Terzic.

Player to Watch: Xavi Simons
RB Leipzig's creative midfielder Xavi Simons is set to make an impact again this season after another loan deal was secured for him. Simons was instrumental for Leipzig last season, contributing 15 assists and 10 goals across all competitions. He continued his form with a goal and an assist in Leipzig's 4-1 German Cup victory over Essen. As Leipzig eyes their first Bundesliga title, Simons will be a key player to watch.

Fixtures:
Friday:
- Borussia Moenchengladbach v Bayer Leverkusen (1830 GMT)

Saturday:
- RB Leipzig v Bochum
- Hoffenheim v Holstein Kiel
- Mainz v Union Berlin
- Freiburg v Stuttgart
- Augsburg v Werder Bremen
- Borussia Dortmund v Eintracht Frankfurt (1630 GMT)

Sunday:
- Wolfsburg v Bayern Munich
- St Pauli v Heidenheim (1530 GMT)