Bundesliga-Updates: Upamecano extends with Bayern, Schlotterbeck vs. Tah, Dortmund’s winning streak and Werder Bremen parts ways with coach

The Bundesliga season remains highly exciting, especially in the race for the top spots and against relegation. One highlight of recent days is Dayot Upamecano’s contract extension with FC Bayern Munich. The French center-back signed a new deal until 2030 and has long established himself as a world-class pillar in defense. Since joining Bayern in the summer of 2021—and particularly under coach Vincent Kompany in the 2024/25 season—the 27-year-old has delivered outstanding performances. His current Bundesliga record is impressive: in nearly two years with him on the pitch, Bayern has suffered zero defeats—29 wins and seven draws. This streak underscores his role as a guarantee for success in defense. Uli Hoeneß praised him: "I would be thrilled if Dayot Upamecano decided to stay at FC Bayern." Captain Manuel Neuer added: "He is highly respected among us players. He knows we value him greatly, recognize his quality, and need him."

Another Bundesliga duel electrifying fans in the coming weeks is the Klassiker between Borussia Dortmund and FC Bayern Munich. Two of Germany’s best center-backs, Nico Schlotterbeck and Jonathan Tah, will face off, embodying contrasting styles. Schlotterbeck is the risk-taking, playmaking defender who often seeks long passes and sets offensive accents. Tah excels in consistent one-on-one duels, particularly in the air (70% win rate), and boasts high passing accuracy (96%). While Schlotterbeck has already scored three times this season, Tah focuses on defensive stability. Schlotterbeck describes their dynamic: "I’ve known Jona for years and always enjoy playing with him. We complement each other well. Maybe I’m more ball-oriented, but he’s perhaps the better pure defender."

Meanwhile, Borussia Dortmund continues its strong form. On matchday 22, BVB dominated with a 4:0 win over Mainz 05. Serhou Guirassy shone with two headed goals, Maximilian Beier also scored with his head, and Julian Ryerson provided three assists. Dortmund delivered a dominant, well-organized performance, leaving Mainz—despite a few chances—without answers. Goalkeeper Gregor Kobel made several key saves. This victory marks Dortmund’s sixth in a row, temporarily closing the gap to league leaders Bayern Munich to just three points. Next up: a Champions League clash against Atalanta Bergamo on Tuesday.

Promoted side Mainz 05 is experiencing a resurgence, thanks largely to coach Urs Fischer and key player Nadiem Amiri. Since the start of the year, Mainz has collected 13 of 18 possible points, finally climbing clear of the relegation zone. In the so-called "Fischer table" (points since his arrival), they even occupy a Champions League spot. Amiri has contributed six goals in recent weeks, including two against Augsburg, cementing his role as the offensive engine. His form could also catch the eye of national team coach Julian Nagelsmann ahead of March’s internationals and the upcoming World Cup.

Less positive news comes from SV Werder Bremen. After ten Bundesliga games without a win, the club parted ways with head coach Horst Steffen on Sunday morning. The decision followed a 1:1 draw against Borussia Mönchengladbach and an overall disappointing record of 4 wins, 7 draws, and 9 losses. Clemens Fritz, Werder’s managing director, stated: "It was a tough decision, but we no longer believe Horst can turn things around after this long winless streak." Assistant coaches Raphael Duarte and Christian Groß will take interim charge until a new head coach is appointed. Steffen had only joined in the summer, facing the daunting task of steering the club clear of relegation.