Bundesliga Mid-Season Review: The Top Performers

The 2025 Bundesliga season is nearing its halfway point, officially concluding in mid-January. However, the time has come to assess the standout players from the opening stretch of the season.

Mid-Season Highlights

This evaluation showcases players who have significantly influenced their teams, affected match outcomes, and maintained high performance levels over a consistent period. While some renowned names may not be automatic starters, others who began as surprises may not have sustained their early success. The focus of this mid-season analysis is on tangible performance rather than reputation; thus, here are the eleven players who have made the most impact over the first 15 matchdays.

The Best XI of the Bundesliga First Half

Goalkeeper

Gregor Kobel: Despite some limitations with the ball at his feet, the Borussia Dortmund keeper excels in traditional goalkeeping. He boasts a remarkable save rate of 75% and has only conceded 12 goals in 15 games, maintaining a clean sheet eight times. In terms of classic goalkeeping skills, he remains unrivaled in the Bundesliga.

Right-back

Konrad Laimer: The versatile midfielder has settled into his new right-back position exceptionally well this season. At 28, he has never been in better form, contributing two goals and three assists while showcasing solid defensive skills. His partnership with teammate Michael Olise is also noteworthy.

Center-back

Dayot Upamecano: Once a target for criticism two years ago, the French defender has evolved into a top-tier player. He plays a crucial role in Vincent Kompany’s system, helping FC Bayern establish the league’s strongest defense.

Center-back

Nico Schlotterbeck: Among center-backs, Schlotterbeck stands out for his influence on the game. While he has faced some criticism recently, his impact on the team’s play is significant. He averages 6.5 completed long passes per match, with only Joshua Kimmich offering a more dominant presence in playmaking.

Left-back

Alejandro Grimaldo: Following the departure of key players, the Spaniard has emerged as a critical asset for Bayer Leverkusen. As a left-back who also serves as a playmaker, he has scored four goals and provided four assists, proving indispensable to the team’s success.

Midfielder

Wouter Burger: The Hoffenheim newcomer is among the season’s biggest revelations. Acquired from Stoke City for just four million euros, he has quickly become the heartbeat of TSG’s midfield, with three goals and five assists to his name.

Midfielder

Joshua Kimmich: The epitome of a Bundesliga maestro, Kimmich continues to dictate the pace and rhythm for his team. His exceptional ball control and ability to dominate matches make him indispensable for FC Bayern Munich.

Right Winger

Michael Olise: Building on an impressive debut season, the French winger has further developed his game. With nine assists, he is regarded as the league’s finest playmaker, consistently creating scoring opportunities.

Attacking Midfielder

Christoph Baumgartner: After transitioning from a backup role, he has flourished this season. With six goals and six assists, Baumgartner has become a key figure in RB Leipzig’s attack, leading in productivity outside of Bayern Munich’s ranks.

Left Winger

Luis Díaz: The Colombian forward has proved to be a valuable signing for the historic champion, averaging a goal every 83 minutes while also contributing efficiently without the ball.

Center Forward

Harry Kane: Despite competition from notable players like Jonathan Burkardt and Haris Tabakakovic, Kane stands out as the primary choice for the center-forward position. His goal-scoring prowess suggests he could surpass the 40-goal mark this season.

Bench Strength

While the starting eleven takes center stage, many other players have also excelled this season. Notable mentions for the substitute bench include Peter Gulacsi, Luka Vuskovic, David Raum, Aleix García, Angelo Stiller, Said El Mala, Yan Dioamande, Bazoumana Tore, and Haris Tabakovic.

Additionally, once rehabilitated from injuries, DFB stars Assan Ouedraogo and Jonathan Burkardt are strong contenders for the bench, joined by players such as Marvin Schwäbe, Vladimir Coufal, Castello Lukeba, Rocco Reitz, Bilal El Khannouss, Ritsu Doan, Fisnik Asslani, and Deniz Undav, who are also likely to receive accolades.