New Improved Bayern Munich?

No striker in Europe has been more sublime this season than Robert Lewandowski. The Polish International has 14 goals to his name already, including his famous 9 minute, 5 goal salvo against Bundesliga title contending upstarts, Wolfsburg. His partner in crime, Thomas Muller has been in fine form once again. He has 8 goals already this season, making it one of his most prolific seasons by strike rate.

What’s surprising is the old duo of terror from Bavaria, Robben and Ribery not featuring due to injuries. Yet, that just goes to show the impressive depth of talent available at Pep’s disposal. It seems Lewandowski has finally settled into Bayern, after stating on quite a few occasions last season that he was not happy in Munich.

The real reason behind Bayern’s success? Douglas Costa.

The Brazilian arrived from Shaktar Donetsk for a hefty fee of €30 million in the summer but has slotted into the side without any seeming difficulty. Nothing speaks more than the fact he already has 11 assists this season, creating a lot of chances and being a genuine nuisance to the opposing defence.

Bayern lost long time servant, Bastain Schweinstiger, who moved to Manchester United. It is not easy to replace a midfielder with his ability to control a match from deep and push it forward to the fast paced wings of Bayern. However, the loss has been mitigated in a different way, with the signing of Auturo Vidal from Juventus. The dynamic midfielder, known for his energy, explosive play and sometimes, his hot temper adds another dimension to Bayern, which they did not have in the last few seasons. They now have a midfielder capable on playing deep in the midfield or going ahead, which allows Pep to really tinker with his formations and line ups.

The defence has been fairly reliable for Bayern. They seemed shaky at times last season and during the first few games, especially David Alaba. That is no longer the case as the German Giants seem ready to conquer it all with overall strong team.

The morale is high, and if there is going to be any barrier in German Football, it will be a new resurgent Dortmund who have not lost a game this season, but hit a road block in their momentum. Bayern could be hoping that Dortmund put up a challenge and the players would be able to wrap the title up later, keeping their winning mentality longer. Munich, when they win the league too fast, tend to lose it and suffer badly in Europe.

Bayern Munich might end up winning a second treble, matching FC Barcelona if things stand as they do.