Augsburg's steady progress under Baum sets up Bayern test
Augsburg will host Bayern Munich on Matchday 5, with the visitors favored but wary of their opponent. Since replacing Sandro Wagner in December 2025, Manuel Baum has guided Augsburg to 33 points in 22 games and a ninth-place finish. Augsburg's defense improved under Baum, and they handed Bayern their only league loss last season.
When Augsburg turned to Manuel Baum in December 2025, they had collected 10 points from 12 matches and sat three points clear of the drop. Baum, who had coached the club from 2016 to 2019, initially took charge on an interim basis. A run of one goal conceded in three games helped secure an 18-month deal.
Over his first 22 matches, Augsburg earned 33 points and finished ninth. Their defense ranked among the league's better units from Matchday 13 onward, and they beat Bayern 2-1 at the Allianz Arena, handing the champions their sole Bundesliga defeat. This season, Augsburg's 11 goals in four games are a club record, with Gregoritsch scoring three.
Augsburg's rise under Baum may boost local civic pride and matchday spending in Augsburg, while giving fans of smaller clubs a hopeful model of stability and smart coaching. A competitive challenge to Bayern could increase neutral interest in the Bundesliga, potentially benefiting broadcasters, sponsors and grassroots participation. However, results are uncertain, and any social or economic effects would likely remain modest and localized.