Bayern Munich begin the curtain raiser to the Bundesliga with an opening game against Schalke 04, looking to build on the tremendous success of last season as well as the run of great form by many of their players to the final 4 of the FIFA World Cup.

Bayern will be without influential midfielder Arjen Robben, whose hamstring strain at the end of the season has resulted in a complete tear when he got checked up by Bayern in the off-season. Franc Ribery has just started training and might make an appearance depending on his fitness.

Bayern should look to start with Ivica Olic up front with FIFA WC Young player of the tournament and golden boot winner Tomas Mueller starting in support of him. Schweinsteiger, van Bommel, Ribery, Kroos should be looking to start in the midfield and incase Ribery isn't fit, Hamit Altintop can take his place.

Schalke have made some changes in the off season that makes their lineup a bit more formidable especially with former honcho Felix Magath in charge of them. With the addition of Raul to the front line by himself, but I doubt at his age he can trouble the Bayern defense by himself. The Schalke defense should be the one that will be hard to ruffle with Metzelder sitting in front of goalkeeper Neuer.

Nonetheless, the flair with which Bayern has been playing last off season, should continue with their players being in great form, should look to win their first trophy of the season. 

THIS BET IS FOR BAYERN MUNICH TO WIN THE SUPER CUP (including 90 minutes, penalties and everything)