Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Bundesliga match.
Bayer Leverkusen enter a new era under Erik ten Hag, with expectations of another medal challenge — though whether they can deliver remains to be seen. Their first real test comes against Hoffenheim on opening weekend.
Bayer Leverkusen
The Dutchman’s appointment was met with scepticism after his struggles at Manchester United, but few managers have thrived there in the past decade. In Leverkusen, however, he faces a very different challenge. The departure of Xabi Alonso triggered an exodus: Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Amine Adli, Jonathan Tah and Granit Xhaka have all moved on. Reinforcements have arrived, but integrating them will take time. Pre-season offered little clarity, with only one notable test against Chelsea, which ended in a 0:2 defeat.
Hoffenheim
Hoffenheim, meanwhile, endured a dismal 2024/25 after qualifying for Europe the year before, narrowly avoiding the relegation play-offs. Christian Ilzer, who took charge in November 2024, has been kept on. The club have added 21-year-old midfielder Leon Avdullahu from Basel and veteran full-back Vladimír Coufal on a free after his long spell at West Ham United. With these additions, a mid-table finish looks a realistic target.
Bayer Leverkusen vs Hoffenheim Prediction
Even without stars, Bayer Leverkusen’s overall quality remains superior, and at home they should have enough to see off Hoffenheim.
