Harry Kane’s much-anticipated Bundesliga debut is poised to steal the spotlight as reigning champions Bayern Munich kick off the 2023/24 season against Werder Bremen on Friday (kick-off: 8.30pm CEST).

With or without Kane, Werder Bremen faces an imposing challenge in their season opener. Historically, they have struggled against Bayern, although they did manage to give them a tough fight in a close 2-1 defeat at home towards the end of the previous season.

Ole Werner’s squad, marking their return to the Bundesliga, clinched a 13th-place finish, only narrowly avoiding the relegation playoff spot by a mere three points. Their roster has been bolstered during the summer transfer window, including the addition of Naby Keita. Unfortunately, the former RB Leipzig and Liverpool midfielder is currently sidelined due to a groin injury sustained during a pre-season friendly. Among the new faces at the Weser-Stadion is Polish striker Dawid Kownacki. However, the key highlight remains the retention of Niclas Füllkrug, a vital asset after ending the previous campaign as the Bundesliga’s co-top scorer with 15 goals, pivotal to the team’s bid for survival.

Bayern Munich’s triumph in Bremen played a decisive role in a thrilling title race, ultimately secured by the record champions on the final day based on goal difference. Their pre-season results have been a mixed bag, culminating in a comprehensive 3-0 defeat to DFB Cup holders Leipzig in the recent Supercup encounter, hosted last weekend.

Following his record transfer from Tottenham Hotspur, which transpired just under 24 hours prior, Harry Kane made his debut as a second-half substitute in that game. His imminent first start is eagerly anticipated on Matchday 1. Another newcomer, Min-jae Kim, is vying for a spot in the defensive lineup, while Manuel Neuer, the goalkeeper, remains sidelined due to injury. Konrad Laimer’s arrival from Leipzig has seemingly pushed Leon Goretzka down the midfield hierarchy. Consequently, Goretzka is likely to share the substitutes’ bench with notable players like Thomas Müller and Dayot Upamecano. The depth of Bayern’s bench is certainly enviable.