Bayern's Kompany: Rivalry with Leverkusen is still there

Bayern Munich coach Vincent Kompany said ahead of the top Bundesliga match against Bayer Leverkusen on Saturday that the rivalry of the past few years is still there, reported dpa.

"This is still a top game in the Bundesliga. And we've got the rivalry of the past few years that still exists in our squad," Kompany said in a news conference on Friday.

Bayern's run of 11 consecutive Bundesliga titles was ended by Leverkusen in 2023-24, when they claimed their maiden league trophy in an unbeaten season.

Last term, Leverkusen, however, couldn't keep up with Bayern, who topped the league 13 points ahead of the rivals.

Leverkusen had a difficult start to the season after losing key players such as Florian Wirtz, Granit Xhaka and defender Jonathan Tah, who moved to Bayern, as well as coach Xabi Alonso.

But they are starting to find their best form under coach Kasper Hjulmand.

"Leverkusen have reached their top form under the new coach. They lost a lot of talent but also brought in talent. When you see how many chances they create and how many goals they score, they're still a dangerous team that's picked up results in the Bundesliga," Kompany said.

"When we face an opponent like this, we mustn't underestimate them – and we won't. But we're playing at home. We have complete faith in our players."

Manuel Neuer is expected to be between the posts after he made way for Jonas Urbig in the last two games.

Bayern have won their first 14 matches of a season across all competitions, a record in Europe's top five leagues.