Bundesliga legends have analyzed in a recent report how Borussia Dortmund can reduce the gap to record champions Bayern Munich. The article by NDTV Sports, published this week, gathers the views of experienced professionals on the perennial challenge in German football.
The Black and Yellows finished the 2025 season in second place with 64 points from 29 games, securing 19 wins and seven draws. With 60 goals scored and 29 conceded, the team has a solid goal difference of +31. Yet, a gap of twelve points to the champions from Munich remains.
The consulted Bundesliga legends see several starting points for Borussia Dortmund. A central aspect is long-term planning and squad continuity. In recent years, BVB has repeatedly had to sell key players to top international clubs. The experts emphasize that retaining key performers for longer periods would be decisive in building a stable team structure that lasts an entire season.
Another focus is on youth development. Dortmund's youth academy is considered one of the best, but the experts urge that talents need to be better integrated into the first team and retained there. Competition from Bayern, who can often make stronger financial offers, presents a constant challenge here. The legends advise a clear playing philosophy pursued consistently from the youth teams to the senior squad.
The injury situation is a current factor BVB must manage. Ahead of the next match, three important players – Nico Schlotterbeck, Carney Chukwuemeka, and Ramy Bensebaini – are unavailable. These absences test the squad's depth, especially in defense. The complete overview of the personnel status can be found on our injuries page.
Despite these challenges, Dortmund ended the last season with a strong run of four wins in the final five games. This positive momentum needs to be carried into the new campaign. The team must prove it can deliver in decisive moments and under pressure – an area where Bayern has often performed better in the past.
The immediate next step is the away match at TSG 1899 Hoffenheim on September 5, 2026. Hoffenheim currently sits in sixth place and presents an early test. All upcoming fixtures are listed in our fixtures schedule.
Long-term, the task is to address the analyzed weaknesses. The there is no simple formula. It requires a combination of smart transfer policy, developing own players, and mental strength in direct duels. The coming season will show if BVB can implement the legends' advice and narrow the gap to Bayern. The current standings and team statistics provide the quantitative benchmark for this.
