Bayer Leverkusen’s remarkable Bundesliga and cup double last season has not swayed coach Xabi Alonso’s belief that Bayern Munich remain the title favorites this season.
“For me, the favorites are Bayern, that’s clear,” Alonso declared at a press conference ahead of Leverkusen’s Bundesliga season opener at Borussia Moenchengladbach on Friday. “Our goal is to stay in the top four. That’s realistic — we have a good squad.”
Leverkusen’s historic triumph last season, which ended Bayern’s 11-year reign in Germany, was a testament to their resilience and tactical acumen. However, Alonso is keen to emphasize that past achievements are no guarantee of future success.
“Last year was really nice… but we’re starting from scratch again,” he said. “We need to earn everything again. We need to win our points and for that we need good performances.”
Bayern, under new coach Vincent Kompany, have bolstered their squad with several high-profile signings, including Michael Olise, Joao Palhinha, and Hiroki Ito. Leverkusen, on the other hand, have maintained a relatively stable roster, with the exception of the departure of Moussa Diaby to Manchester United.
Despite their impressive unbeaten run in Germany since May 2023, Alonso is wary of the challenges that lie ahead. “We know every game will be difficult — and that will be the case against Gladbach,” he said.
Leverkusen’s title-winning campaign was built on a solid defense and a potent attack led by Patrik Schick and Florian Wirtz. However, they will face a stern test against a Gladbach side that has strengthened its squad with the addition of Marcus Thuram from Borussia Monchengladbach.
Alonso will be without Argentina midfielder Exequiel Palacios for the trip to Gladbach due to a knee injury. However, the rest of his squad is available for selection as Leverkusen aim to start the new season with a positive result.
