After the recent confirmation that Robert Lewandowski will be a Bayern Munich player from the summer, social networking sites capitulated. Everyone had their opinion on the matter. However, the majority of people who were giving their say are completely oblivious to German football. Instantly, accusitions of the Bundesliga becoming a 'one-team league' or dead surfaced. It's not absurd of them to have their say on one of Europe's largest and eagerly anticipated transfers - but it was the absurd statements of those tearing into the Bundesliga whilst having little to no fundamental knowledge on the league as a whole, whatsoever. Whilst the title race is seemingly over in Bayern's favour for the foreseeable future, the competitive nature in the Bundesliga hottens up just below the first position. Second place and the European slots will be fiercely contested.
It simply cannot be disputed that the title race is over. Bayern Munich have basically wrapped up the title race for the next two or three seasons, minimum. Understandably, the signing of Robert Lewandowski from closest title challengers Dortmund is the largest cause of this. As well as the signing of Mario Götze, Bayern's short and long-term title chances have gone sky high. That will drain the exciting out of the Bundesliga for some, which is a valuable argument. However, Bayern have been portrayed as villians in recent teams which is harsh. Whilst they may be signing their rivals best players and killing off the competition, it's a smart tactic they've deployed. Not only that, but people fail to appreciate the side that Bayern Munich are building, on the foundations of one the Europe's greatest teams. If Bundesliga tickles your fancy, the idea is to look past Bayern and delve into the league a little further. That's where you'll find the competitive aspect.
The three remaining Champions League slots and the two Europa League slots will have various teams contesting to secure as their own. Borussia Dortmund won't have second place wrapped up, by any means. Especially if this season can be used as a basis for the future. Klopp's side have been tested under gruelling circumstances; after a freak, mass injury occurence has resulted in a huge loss of confidence, as Dortmund have fallen to fourth in the table - nervously looking over their shoulder and needing to start the second half of the season well. Also, the management of the players contracts has come under scrutiny. Shinji Kagawa left with one year remaining on his deal for less than what Dortmund could have commanded. Then there's Lewandowski. Allowed to leave as a costless agent, only to sign for Bayern Munich. Dortmund powerless to prevent it. A similar situation could be on the horizon with Ilkay Gündogan if they're not careful. Dortmund have shown signs of weakness, both on and off the field. If key players are continuously leaving, for nowhere near the amount they should be going for, Dortmund will be contested by over Bundesliga sides for a Champions League slot. Their results against the other five clubs within the top six only highlight the competition they are facing - with losses to Bayern Munich, Bayer Leverkusen, Borussia Mönchengladbach, VfL Wolfsburg and Hertha Berlin.
The side that some predict to pip into second place more regularly is Bayer Leverkusen. The last few seasons has season Leverkusen develop into a strong outfit and proving their worth amongst Bayern and Dortmund. Under the guidance of Sami Hyppia, Leverkusen's rise has been nothing short of superb this season. They're not far off from matching Dortmund in various departments, but for now, the aim should be to continue to progress as much as possible. Technically brilliant; Leverkusen have arguably been the second best side in the Bundesliga thus far.
Lastly, this season so far, has seen the renaissance of Borussia Mönchengladbach and VfL Wolfsburg. Gladbach have been excellent under Favre's guidance this season - most notably due to the contribution of Raffael and Max Kruse. However, last season, their European football hopes were dashed as the season grew older. A couple of wise additions and their back in the mix. Wolfsburg have also gone on a nine match unbeaten run which has seen them climb the table - putting themselves within contention for a European spot. Both, whose aims may not have necessarily have been to qualify for Champions League football, are both currently on course to take Dortmund and Schalke's routine top-four slot.
Lastly, the surprise package of this season: Hertha Berlin. The Bundesliga loves a darkhorse. Last season's was both a mixture of Eintracht Frankfurt and Freiburg; who providied further thrills and spills to an entertaining season. This time around, Hertha Berlin have blown away all expectations that many would have of a newly promoted club. Currently occupying 6th, the final Europa League slot, it would be a monumental achievement if Hertha could secure European football. Although it could have side affects for next season if they qualify, it shows the refreshment in competiton that the Bundesliga can offer, despite Bayern's expected and continuous dominance.
All the teams above are capable of mounting a challenge for their respective aims, and this is without mentioning Schalke - who's season can only get better. Often the case, it has been a miserable turn out for Keller's men; who should not be outside of the European slots altogether, on paper.
To say that the Bundesliga ultimately becomes a one-team league after one transfer in a naive approach. It depends what you're searching for within a league. Undoubtedly, the title race won't be the contest some would hope it would be in Germany. However, that doesn't make the league of a poor standard. There's a lot to be desired in German football if you change your approach and expectations. The tempo of the play, as well as a strong emphasis on attacking, costless-flowing football partnered with a large source of youth talent breaking onto the scene. Just a few aspects that make the Bundesliga pleasent viewing.