Xabi Alonso has orchestrated a stunning redemption at Bayer Leverkusen, propelling the team from relegation fears to a commanding Bundesliga lead in just over a year. This remarkable turnaround, fueled by Alonso’s astute coaching and Leverkusen’s exhilarating brand of football, has captivated the league and sent shockwaves through German football.
Alonso, hailed for his elegant midfield play in his playing days, was untested as a major club manager when he assumed control of Leverkusen in October 2022. The team was teetering on the brink of disaster, languishing second from bottom in the Bundesliga. Despite initial skepticism, Alonso’s vision and meticulous planning began to take shape.
The journey wasn’t smooth sailing. Following an opening victory, a six-game winless streak tested Alonso’s resolve. However, the turning point came in November 2022 with a resounding 5-0 thrashing of then-leader Union Berlin. This victory instilled confidence and ignited a spark within the Leverkusen squad.
Since then, Leverkusen has been unstoppable. They’ve extended their unbeaten streak to a record-breaking 25 games across all competitions, dazzling fans with their free-flowing, attacking style. Speedy wing-backs Jeremie Frimpong and Álex Grimaldo spark relentless raids, while midfield maestro Granit Xhaka provides control and experience. The 20-year-old wonderkid Florian Wirtz orchestrates the magic up front, having racked up an impressive 8 goals and 12 assists so far this season.
Alonso’s tactical flexibility is another key factor. Against Bochum, he opted for Patrik Schick instead of Victor Boniface for the first time in the Bundesliga this season. The Czech striker responded handsomely with a first-half hat-trick, demonstrating the depth and versatility within the Leverkusen ranks.
While boasting the league’s most potent attack, Leverkusen also possesses a formidable defense. Only Bayern Munich has conceded fewer goals, a testament to Jonathan Tah, Edmond Tapsoba, and Odilon Kossounou’s prowess in safeguarding Lukas Hradecky’s net.
Looking ahead, the African Cup of Nations presents a potential challenge. Boniface, Tapsoba, Kossounou, Nathan Tella, and Amine Adli are all likely to be called up, leaving Alonso with a depleted squad. However, the coach remains unfazed.
“We’ve always said we believe in the quality of the players, and even if a few players won’t be there because of the Africa Cup, we have a very, very good squad,” says sporting director Simon Rolfes.
This belief in the depth of the squad was evident in Leverkusen’s comfortable win against Bochum, proving their ability to adapt and cope amidst player absences.
Xabi Alonso’s Leverkusen has rewritten the script. They are not just the surprise leaders of the Bundesliga; they are a force to be reckoned with, playing entertaining football and exceeding all expectations. As the league enters the winter break, one question remains: Can Alonso’s Leverkusen sustain this dazzling form and challenge Bayern Munich’s Bundesliga dominance until the very end?
