Bundesliga Team of the Season So Far
As the Bundesliga approaches its winter hiatus, Rune Gjerulff, editor-in-chief of Bulinews.com, has compiled his selections for the best performers of the season thus far.
The chosen lineup is structured in a 4-2-3-1 formation, detailed below.
Goalkeeper
Gregor Kobel, Borussia Dortmund
Borussia Dortmund has allowed just 12 goals this season, making them the team with the second-lowest goals conceded in the Bundesliga, behind Bayern Munich’s 11. Kobel has recorded eight clean sheets, the highest in the league, and boasts a save percentage of 76.6%, showcasing his consistent shot-stopping prowess.
Defenders
Konrad Laimer, Bayern Munich
Often overlooked, Laimer has established himself as a key player for Vincent Kompany’s squad at right-back. He’s contributed two goals and three assists, aligning perfectly with Kompany’s aggressive high-pressing approach, displaying intensity and high energy. According to Opta, Laimer averages two chances created from open play per 90 minutes, leading all full-backs in Europe’s top leagues who have played at least half the matches.
Nico Schlotterbeck, Borussia Dortmund
Schlotterbeck is a cornerstone of Dortmund’s defense, excelling in both tackling and build-up play. While his pass completion rate is 88.1%, he often attempts longer passes, with over seven successful long balls per game showcasing his ability to influence game progression.
Jonathan Tah, Bayern Munich
Tah has solidified his position since transferring from Bayer Leverkusen, forming a formidable partnership with Dayot Upamecano. He has been instrumental in Bayern conceding only 11 goals in 15 league matches, and he leads the league with a pass completion rate of 96.1%.
Alex Grimaldo, Bayer Leverkusen
Choosing to remain at Bayer Leverkusen during the summer, Grimaldo has stepped up as a central figure in the squad. The 30-year-old has taken on a leadership role, contributing offensively with four goals and four assists across just 11 league matches.
Midfielders
Joshua Kimmich, FC Bayern
Kimmich has been pivotal for Bayern, sitting second in the league for completed passes. With a nearly 93% completion rate, he has also recorded five assists and a goal, playing a crucial role in orchestrating the team’s play.
Assan Ouedraogo, RB Leipzig
After a challenging previous season due to injury, Ouedraogo has made an impressive comeback and become essential under coach Ole Werner. At just 19, he showcases impressive physicality, intelligence, and poise in his game. His strong performances earned him his first call-up to the national team, although a recent injury has set him back.
Yan Diomandé, RB Leipzig
Diomandé, acquired from Leganés for €20 million, has quickly become vital in Leipzig’s attack. His skills have led to six goals and three assists, including a notable hat-trick in the Bundesliga.
Michael Olise, FC Bayern
Olise has seamlessly continued his previous season’s form, leading the league with eight assists and scoring seven goals, contributing to 15 goals overall—only surpassed by Harry Kane in goal contributions.
Luis Díaz, FC Bayern
After joining Bayern from Liverpool, Díaz has made an immediate impact. With eight goals and six assists in 14 league appearances, he brings excitement and scoring threat to the team, averaging a goal contribution per match.
Strikers
Harry Kane has been a clear standout, scoring 19 goals and providing three assists in just 15 league appearances. Beyond being Bayern’s primary target in the box, he has also engaged more in link-up play, demonstrating his versatility as a forward.
This summary outlines the standout players in the Bundesliga as we enter the winter break, highlighting their contributions and impact on their respective teams.
