FRANKFURT, Germany (AP) – Only four matches into the season, the Bundesliga is proving eventful with one coach sacked, a couple more under pressure and some positive surprises so far.
One thing remains constant, though: Bayern Munich is already two points clear at the top of the table as the German powerhouse seeks an unprecedented fifth straight title.
Carlo Ancelotti has won all seven matches across all competitions since taking charge, something even his predecessor Pep Guardiola did not manage in three seasons. Ancelotti is now the first Bayern coach to win his first seven matches. His relaxed attitude seems to be appreciated by the players, who enjoy more freedom on the pitch than under the rigid, possession-first style of Guardiola.
Franck Ribery seems to be thriving under Ancelotti and the mercurial French winger has enjoyed a strong start, scoring twice in the first four matches.
The return of the other winger, Arjen Robben, has given Bayern another strong option. Robben needed only seven minutes to find the net after coming off the bench in Bayern’s 3-0 win over Hertha Berlin on Wednesday in his first match since March following two injuries.