Bayern Munich's near-perfect start to the Bundesliga season hit its first real obstacle on Saturday, as Vincent Kompany's side were held to a goalless draw at Schalke in the Veltins-Arena. The result ended a remarkable 47-game run of scoring in the Bundesliga and snapped a 67-matchday spell at the top of the table, with SC Freiburg now leading the standings and Bayern sitting fourth with four points from two games.

Company's decision to rest Harry Kane, Michael Olise, and Jamal Musiala from the start backfired. All three were introduced from the bench but could not break down a disciplined Schalke side marshalled by a commanding Loris Karius in goal. The rotation was deliberate, with Kompany citing the physical toll of a congested early-season schedule, but the outcome raised questions about Bayern's depth when their top attackers are absent. Musiala's return to the squad was itself significant, the 22-year-old having missed the opening weeks after suffering collapses during pre-season linked to a change in medication.

Off the pitch, a potential financial headache is forming. Reports suggest Audi, which holds 8.33 percent of the FC Bayern AG and pays around 45 million euros per year in sponsorship, may exit the partnership in 2027 as part of the Volkswagen Group's wider cost-cutting plan.

Attention now turns to Thursday's Champions League opener at the Allianz Arena against Bodø/Glimt, where a strong performance will be needed to restore confidence after the Schalke setback.