Early results after four matchdays have shifted focus toward Borussia Mönchengladbach and Union Berlin, both winless with heavy goal deficits, alongside Hamburger SV. Promoted sides Schalke 04, SC Paderborn, and SV Elversberg entered with limited top-flight experience, though Elversberg has earned points while Paderborn and Schalke remain near the bottom. Pre-season projections highlighted the promoted trio’s relegation risk due to squad depth and defensive records, yet mid-table sides like Werder Bremen and 1. FC Köln also face survival concerns based on recent form and historical patterns. Schedule congestion for European participants and early injury concerns could further influence the bottom-table battle.