Bayern Munich concluded their 2025 pre-season campaign with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Grasshopper Club Zürich on August 12. The friendly, held at Letzigrund Stadium, marked the final test for Vincent Kompany’s side ahead of the competitive season, with several young stars seizing the spotlight.
The match saw Bayern start with a mixed XI featuring both senior players and emerging prospects. Two of those prospects—Lennart Karl and Jonah Kusi-Asare—delivered the decisive goals. Karl opened the scoring in the 21st minute with a composed finish, showcasing impressive maturity and creativity for a teenager. Just five minutes later, Kusi-Asare doubled the lead with a clinical strike that highlighted his athleticism and goal-scoring instincts. Grasshopper Zürich pulled one back in the second half through Loris Giandomenico, but Bayern held firm to secure the win.
Late in the match, club captain Harry Kane made a brief cameo appearance off the bench. While not heavily involved, his return to action signals that he’s being carefully eased into full fitness ahead of the season opener.
One of the biggest talking points was the performance of goalkeeper Jonas Urbig, who made several key saves. His commanding presence has fueled discussion about Bayern’s goalkeeping future, especially as Manuel Neuer enters what could be his final season. Sporting director Christoph Freund recently confirmed there is no fixed rotation plan between Neuer and Urbig, suggesting a merit-based approach going forward.
The match also served as a platform for 17-year-old Wisdom Mike, who brought fresh energy off the bench. Alongside him, David Santos Daiber impressed in defense, reinforcing the narrative that Bayern’s next generation is ready to step up.
Looking ahead, Bayern Munich now turn their focus to the 2025 Franz Beckenbauer Supercup on August 16, where they’ll face DFB-Pokal winners VfB Stuttgart. The traditional season curtain-raiser will take place at the MHPArena in Stuttgart, and Kompany is expected to field a stronger starting XI, blending youth with experience.
With several young talents making strong cases for inclusion and key veterans returning to fitness, Bayern’s pre-season has offered plenty of promise. If this final match is any indication, the German champions may be entering the new season with a deeper and more dynamic squad than ever before.
