In previous seasons, this time of year was dedicated to compiling a Bundesliga team of the Hinrunde (the first half of the season). However, since there are still two matches remaining in the first half of the campaign, we’ll roll out an August-December XI instead. The selections below are based on player form and arranged in a 4-2-3-1 formation.
Traditionally, standout goalkeepers amaze us with their incredible reflexes, earning their place as the unquestioned number one. This season hasn’t seen a world-class performer in that department, yet at 35, Gulácsi continues to shine, making a remarkable number of saves. The Hungarian international, whose contract expires this summer, deserves another season in top-flight football.
Though not originally signed as a right back, the Austrian Pressingmonster has established himself on the right side of Bayern’s defense. Recent months have marked a significant upturn in Laimer’s form since his move from Leipzig, with his confidence reaching new heights. As a cornerstone in his nation’s first World Cup qualification since 1978, Laimer is set to elevate his game even further in North America next year.
Jonathan Tah | Center Back | 29 | Bayern Munich
Joining Bayern comes with no guarantees, not even for a seasoned Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal champion like Tah. Yet, after a disappointing final season at Leverkusen, he has integrated into Munich like he belongs there. His presence has improved the stability and consistency of central defensive partner Dayot Upamecano.
It may seem unusual to include a player who missed the first month of the Bundesliga due to recovering from a knee surgery, but Schlotterbeck’s importance to Dortmund is undeniable. His ability to read and execute passes with his left foot distinguishes him from other center-backs. While there is speculation about his future in the Ruhrpott and some believe he may have been overly critical of teammates in a recent interview, the 26-year-old showcases exceptional class on the pitch.
Grimaldo’s selection might raise eyebrows since he doesn’t primarily play as a left back in a four-man defense anymore. The 30-year-old has transitioned into a modern hybrid role, combining left wingback and playmaker responsibilities, sometimes within the same game. Although he has aspirations of returning to LaLiga, the Barcelona academy graduate remains crucial to Leverkusen’s UEFA Champions League ambitions. His two goals from free kicks in September during coach Kasper Hjulmand’s debut against Eintracht Frankfurt were notable highlights in the Bundesliga.
Joshua Kimmich | Midfielder | 30 | Bayern Munich
Kimmich has undeniably been the most consistent player in the Bundesliga this season. I can’t recall a single match where he underperformed. He has consistently been the driving force in a central role. Remarkably, he has played through discomfort but remains central to Bayern’s gameplay. At times taken for granted, no other player gets on the ball as often as the Rottweil native, who brings tenacity and substance to the Rekordmeister.
Another Austrian making the cut is Baumgartner, who cannot be overlooked. He perfectly exemplifies a gifted player finally emerging from the shadows of more prominent names. With six goals this season, many from perfectly timed midfield runs, and now six assists after a cunning throw-in that set up Xaver Schlager this past weekend, Baumgartner, only 26, is starting to realize his potential shown during his early years at TSG Hoffenheim.
Michael Olise | Attacking Midfielder | 24 | Bayern Munich
Could there be a better signing by Bayern in recent years? It’s hard to think of one. Olise often emulates Robben, cutting in from the right onto his left foot. While defenders know what he’s attempting to do, stopping him is another matter. Olise began the season brilliantly against Leipzig and has maintained his form, showing potential for even greater productivity than his impressive debut season.
Luis Díaz | Attacking Midfielder | 28 | Bayern Munich
Díaz’s versatility calls for him to be positioned centrally in this lineup, but this should be no challenge for such a talented and captivating player. Now at 28, Díaz likely wishes he had joined Bayern earlier in his career. He fits seamlessly into Vincent Kompany’s vision and brings immense joy to Allianz Arena whenever he plays. Although Florian Wirtz was initially Bayern’s top target, there’s no disappointment that Díaz made the move to Munich.
Cologne fans are deeply concerned as their team has only earned two points from their last six matches, but there’s no doubt about the immense talent of El Mala, who has quickly made a name for himself at just 19 and has already been called up to the Germany national team setup. During a recent appearance on the Cologne-focused “Thekenphilosophen” podcast, I noted—an opinion I stand by—that his goals often showcase spectacular quality. His future in football is exceptionally bright.
Harry Kane | Striker | 32 | Bayern Munich
The classic Carly Simon hit “Nobody Does It Better” could easily apply to Kane. The England captain, now in the later stages of his career, has found the ideal team and environment in Munich, offering a level of comfort not often seen for a player in London. On the field, Kane’s dedication to constantly improving his game is praiseworthy. Truly, nobody does it better.
Substitutes: Oliver Baumann (goalkeeper, Hoffenheim); David Raum (left back, RB Leipzig); Waldemar Anton (center back, Borussia Dortmund); Wouter Burger (midfielder, Hoffenheim); Grischa Prömel (midfielder, Hoffenheim); Aleix García (midfielder, Bayer Leverkusen); Yan Diomande (attacking midfielder, RB Leipzig); Serge Gnabry (attacking midfielder, Bayern Munich); Deniz Undav (striker, VfB Stuttgart).
Thank you for following the Bundesliga columns this season. As we enter the three-week Winterpause, I wish you frohe Weihnachten und einen guten Rutsch, the traditional German greetings during this festive season.