Bayern are still title-hungry, says Mueller

Gotze’s future has been uncertain since he hinted at a problem with coach Pep Guardiola during the recent Audi Cup tournament in Munich.

The start of the 53rd Bundesliga season couldn’t have been much easier for the German champions as Hamburg set out from the start to keep the score respectable, given their last visit to Bayern saw them concede eight times without reply. They begin to raise their eyebrows at the club’s questionable transfer strategy that brings in lots of new talents from overseas – mainly Spain, where Guardiola comes from – but happily gives away their German players.

German bookmakers say Bayern Munich are overwhelming favourites to win an historic fourth consecutive Bundesliga title as they prepare to kick off the new season on Friday against Hamburg.

Wolfsburg, second last season, are seen as the strongest rivals to the title, especially after signing forward Max Kruse from Borussia Moenchengladbach but they must hold on to Belgium global Kevin De Bruyne as offers pour in.

“We want to maintain this mentality”. “Obviously we look at our opponents but 80 percent is about how we focus on our game”.

Another Bundesliga game, another big win for Bayern Munich.

“Apart from that, I want to reach the semi-finals of the Champions League with all my players fit. After that we can see”.

“I’m pleased with the debuts of Douglas Costa and Arturo Vidal”.

Guardiola has described Costa as “one of the best forwards in the world”.

In a further interview with Kicker, Rummenigge said: “Louis van Gaal is very stubborn”.

After suffering through an injury-plagued season (one of which occurred playing for the U.S.), the 22-year-old is still recovering from knee issues and may not be counted on as a first-team sub for a few months.

“He won’t be the best, because he is in Barcelona (Lionel Messi), but Douglas can achieve great things”.

He added: “When you win, you don’t just get three points, but also self-confidence”.

If Guardiola manages to have a successful season, including a good run in the Champions League, the fans will eventually calm down.

Today also marks the exact day 50 years ago Bayern Munich played their first ever Bundesliga game, losing to local rivals 1860 Munchen 1-0.

In addition, Guardiola confirmed Germany stars Mario Götze and Thomas Müller will not be leaving.