Bochum

Bochum comfortably survived relegation last season in what was a great achievement for the club. Despite being one of the favourites for the drop, Bochum more than held their own and even produced memorable victories over Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund. Coach Thomas Reis has so far done an excellent job, but this campaign is likely to be the biggest challenge of his tenure. The second season after a promotion is notoriously difficult, especially with the loss of his centre-back pairing Maxim Leitsch and Armel Bella-Kotchap, who left to join FSV Mainz and Southampton respectively. Reis has brought in experienced defender Ivan Ordets on loan and he is likely to partner with Ersan Masovic in central defence. The cover for defensive positions, however, is limited and more reinforcements could be needed in case of injuries and suspensions. The top scorer from last season, Sebastian Polter has also departed the club for Schalke. Philipp Hofmann has come in as his replacement up front and, although prolific in Liga 2, whether he can prove himself in the top division, remains to be seen. Bochum has strengthened in other areas, attacking midfielder Kevin Stoger from Mainz is a healthy addition, while full-backs Konstantinos Stafylidis and Jordi Osei-Tutu have joined permanently after previous successful loan spells. Bochum is likely to be tough to beat just like they were last season but, if they don’t start well, things could get difficult, at home will again be where most of their points should come from.