Bayern Maintain Bundesliga Summit Despite Augsburg Setback as Leverkusen Heap Misery on Frankfurt

FRANKFURT, 31 January 2026 – The Bundesliga title race took a dramatic turn this weekend as leaders Bayern Munich suffered a surprise defeat, while Bayer Leverkusen capitalised on Eintracht Frankfurt’s ongoing crisis. Despite the setback, Bayern retain a commanding nine-point lead at the top of the 2025/26 table.

Title Race: Bayern’s Cushion Tested

FC Bayern München’s remarkable 27-match unbeaten league run came to a stunning end at the WWK Arena, where FC Augsburg staged a 2–1 comeback victory. This result, however, did little to alter the standings, with Thomas Tuchel’s side still holding a significant advantage over pursuers Borussia Dortmund and TSG Hoffenheim. The focus now shifts to whether any team can mount a sustained challenge to the Bavarians’ domestic dominance.

Bundesliga Standings (Top 5)

Leverkusen Compound Frankfurt’s Woes

At Deutsche Bank Park, Bayer Leverkusen delivered a clinical 3-1 victory over a beleaguered Eintracht Frankfurt. Goals from Malik Tillman, Arthur, and Aleix García sealed a third consecutive win for Die Werkself, extending Frankfurt’s winless streak to eight matches across all competitions. The defeat also marked the end of Dennis Schmitt’s interim tenure, with the club swiftly appointing former Liverpool winger Albert Riera as their new permanent head coach.

January Transfer Window Speculation

With the winter transfer window closing, speculation surrounds several Bundesliga stars. Bayern Munich midfielder Leon Goretzka, whose contract expires soon, has been linked with a move away, though reports suggest advanced talks with Manchester United are not currently underway. Elsewhere, RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande and FC Köln’s Said El Mala are among the players attracting significant rumoured interest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can anyone catch Bayern Munich for the title?

While Bayern’s lead was cut to nine points following their loss to Augsburg, their advantage remains substantial. Borussia Dortmund and Hoffenheim would need a sustained period of perfect results coupled with a Bayern collapse to realistically challenge.

What is next for Eintracht Frankfurt?

The club has acted decisively by appointing Albert Riera as head coach following their poor run. His immediate task will be to stabilise the squad and address a defence that has conceded three goals in six of their last eight matches.

Are any major Bundesliga transfers expected before the deadline?

The market has been relatively quiet for major confirmed deals. The most significant movement appears to be in the managerial sphere, with Frankfurt’s appointment of Riera. Player-wise, the futures of Leon Goretzka (Bayern) and several other high-profile names remain subjects of intense speculation but not yet concrete action.