Dortmund primed to challenge Bayern’s league dominance

Leipzig cannot be overlooked with Nagelsmann at the helm

BERLIN, Aug 13, (AP): Borussia Dortmund have declared a challenge to end Bayern Munich’s seven-year domination of the Bundesliga and are encouraged by signs of disharmony and unrest from the defending champions.

After pushing Bayern to the final day last season, Dortmund invested heavily over the summer to strengthen defensive frailties and give Swiss coach Lucien Favre more attacking options for his second season in charge.

Bayern’s preparations have been overshadowed by the injury to Manchester City winger Leroy Sane, the club’s No. 1 target to help fill the void left following the departures of Franck Ribery and Arjen Robben.

Coach Niko Kovac spoke of his certainty that the German international would arrive, leading to a very public put-down from chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge. Meanwhile, reports suggest longstanding club president Uli Hoeness will not seek re-election in November.

Bayern players like Robert Lewandowski and Joshua Kimmich have been vocal in calling for significant reinforcements ahead of the new season and sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic came under pressure when they failed to materialize.