Germany's flops back in focus

BERLIN - The Bundesliga returns on Friday with German soccer still feeling the aftershocks of the country's early World Cup exit and Bayern Munich hoping new coach Niko Kovac can maintain the relentless success the club expects.

Germany's embarrassing failure to defend its world title in Russia, crashing out after finishing last in its group, leaves several Bundesliga stars with a point to prove in the new season.

Bayern kicks off the campaign on Friday at home to Hoffenheim, which will make its debut in the Champions League group stages this season, with midfielder Thomas Mueller noting the World Cup debacle provides extra motivation.