Bayer Leverkusen has etched their name in football history by clinching their maiden Bundesliga title, a remarkable achievement lauded by Xabi Alonso, who sheds light on the journey to success.
At the outset of the season, the notion of Bayer Leverkusen lifting the Bundesliga trophy seemed improbable even to their staunchest supporters. However, as reality surpasses expectation, Die Werkself finds themselves basking in glory with five games remaining.
Alonso delves into the pressures of steering a club towards their inaugural league triumph, particularly under the relentless pursuit of German football giants Bayern Munich.
Additionally, he reflects on dispelling the haunting specter of the ‘Neverkusen Curse,’ a historical tendency for the club to falter despite commanding positions.
In the aftermath of the title triumph, Alonso’s elation is palpable. He articulates, “Well, it feels great because I have this feeling that this is not just for us, this is for so many people that have been chasing this dream for so many years.”
He pays homage to past luminaries such as Christoph Daum, Klaus Augenthaler, and Roger Schmidt, acknowledging their contributions to the club’s legacy.
Alonso attributes Leverkusen’s success to a collective effort and a fresh perspective devoid of the burden of history.
He reveals, “The mentality of losing key matches? Because I was not here for so long, that was not in my veins so deep, so probably I was lighter.”
Leverkusen’s journey to the title was propelled by astute decisions, unwavering support, and a conviction in their capabilities from the onset of the season.
While celebrating their Bundesliga conquest, Leverkusen now sets their sights on further glory. Despite clinching the league title, their pursuit of a treble remains unabated, with ambitions to triumph in the Europa League and the DFB Pokal.
Their upcoming clash against West Ham in the Europa League signifies the next chapter in their quest for continental and domestic supremacy.