Bayer Leverkusen’s journey towards a German championship title has been a tumultuous one, filled with heartbreak and disappointment. However, this season, under the leadership of Xabi Alonso, they have emerged as a dominant force in German football. Despite being considered part of the Bundesliga’s top three teams, few believed they could challenge perennial champions Bayern Munich, especially after Bayern’s marquee signing of England captain Harry Kane.
Alonso’s arrival at Leverkusen injected new life into a team that was struggling in the Bundesliga standings. As an inexperienced coach, Alonso took the time to understand his team’s strengths and weaknesses before implementing a new tactical approach. Leverkusen has transformed into one of the best possession-based teams in Europe, controlling the pace of games and frustrating opponents with their ball retention.
Alonso’s success as a manager is not surprising given his thoughtful approach to the game. While many former top-class players have struggled in managerial roles, Alonso’s ability to adapt and learn has been instrumental in Leverkusen’s success. Despite interest from Bayern Munich and Liverpool, Alonso has chosen to stay with Leverkusen to further his development as a coach.
While Alonso deserves credit for his tactical acumen, he couldn’t have won the German championship without a group of players who bought into his ideas. Players like Jonathan Tah, Jeremie Frimpong, and Florian Wirtz have been crucial to Leverkusen’s success this season. However, it is Granit Xhaka who has stood out the most. Xhaka’s move from Arsenal to Leverkusen may have seemed like a step down, but it has revitalized his career. As an Alonso-type midfielder, Xhaka controls the attack and sets the rhythm and direction of each play. His leadership on and off the field has been invaluable to Leverkusen.
Leverkusen’s success this season has come at a fraction of the cost of Bayern Munich’s signings. While Bayern paid a hefty fee for Harry Kane alone, Leverkusen made five major summer signings for a combined total of £59m. Leverkusen’s ability to find value in the transfer market has been key to their success.
As Leverkusen celebrates their maiden domestic championship, Bayern Munich will be looking to reclaim their dominance in German football. Leverkusen’s brilliance this season cannot be denied, but they will face a formidable challenge in thwarting Bayern’s resurgence next year. Nonetheless, guided by Alonso, Leverkusen has etched their names into the annals of history with a remarkable achievement.