Champions League: Alonso Elevates Leverkusen's Performance to New Levels
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Berlin (Germany), Dec 9 (NationPress) Spanish coaching sensation Xabi Alonso has propelled his team Bayer Leverkusen’s performance to unprecedented levels this season. With the UEFA Champions League match against unbeaten Inter Milan approaching, the reigning 2024 German champions appear to have regained their momentum following a shaky start.
Five consecutive league wins have bolstered confidence in their bid to re-enter the 2025 German title race alongside Bayer's international aspirations. Unlike last season's relative ease, Leverkusen has cultivated a fierce resolve to secure narrow victories.
While riding a wave of enthusiasm that led to the club's first national championship last season, adjustments were necessary for the current campaign, as reported by Xinhua.
Injuries to key players Victor Boniface and Patrik Schick have recently hampered Leverkusen's progress, with the talented Florian Wirtz stepping up to fill the void. Fueled by the prestigious Cup victory in Munich, Alonso speaks of a newfound “joy” in navigating the rigors of league play.
“We don’t take things for granted; we have embraced a different approach to reclaim success,” the 43-year-old stated.
The Spaniard remains hopeful that rumors of potential departures will not hinder his team's advancement. To date, the squad appears to have successfully kept distractions at bay. Although Alonso is rumored to be in talks with Real Madrid to succeed Carlo Ancelotti, the futures of German star Wirtz and defender Jonathan Tah remain uncertain.
Speculation suggests Wirtz may follow Alonso to his home country next summer, with reports indicating a transfer fee of up to 150 million euros for the German attacking midfielder. Meanwhile, Tah is reportedly on Barcelona's radar.
If Wirtz opts to leave, Leverkusen is inclined to favor a move abroad to avoid bolstering domestic rival Bayern Munich. The Bavarians are anticipated to pursue Wirtz aggressively but may face financial hurdles, as contract extensions for Jamal Musiala and Joshua Kimmich already present challenges.
Despite external turbulence, Alonso has managed to maintain a sense of independence with his team.
As they prepare to face Inter, the Spaniard hopes for the return of key player Schick, and he is also contemplating the inclusion of Nathan Tella to form a lineup that does not rely on a traditional box striker.
