Xabi Alonso Remains Defiant Amid Leverkusen’s Bundesliga Title Chase
Despite failing to secure a victory against Bayern Munich, Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso refuses to surrender in the Bundesliga title race.
Trailing the record-breaking Bavarians by eight points with twelve matchdays remaining, Alonso maintains his belief in his team’s chances.
"No, no. There are still many games to play," affirmed Alonso following Saturday’s goalless stalemate when asked if the championship pursuit was over.
While acknowledging the need to accumulate wins, Alonso expressed caution about their current position. "Of course, we have to win a lot of games now, and the result in the table could certainly be better," he said.
Historically, no team has overturned such a deficit at this stage of the Bundesliga campaign.
However, Leverkusen defender Jonathan Tah echoes Alonso’s optimism, refusing to write off their title aspirations.
"Of course, it would have been better to win this game," said the Germany international. "But there are still a few games and a few points to collect. We’ll see where we end up."
Alonso’s steadfast belief stems from Leverkusen’s recent performances and the unpredictability of the Bundesliga.
Despite their setback against Bayern, Leverkusen has displayed resilience and quality throughout the season, challenging for the summit with their high-octane attacking style.
"We have to focus on our own performance and try to keep winning," said Alonso. "We have a strong team, and we believe in ourselves."
Leverkusen’s strengths lie in their attacking prowess, boasting a potent front line led by Moussa Diaby, Patrik Schick, and Jeremie Frimpong. Their ability to create chances and convert them into goals has been a key factor in their success this season.
However, they will need to tighten up their defense, which has been exposed at times this season. Conceding fewer goals will be crucial if Leverkusen wants to maintain their title challenge.
The upcoming fixtures will provide a stern test for Alonso’s men, with matches against Mainz, Frankfurt, and RB Leipzig on the horizon.
Mainz, currently in ninth place, has proven to be a challenging opponent, holding Leverkusen to a draw in their previous encounter.
Frankfurt, meanwhile, has been in impressive form, sitting in fourth place and boasting a dangerous attack spearheaded by Randal Kolo Muani.
RB Leipzig, another formidable opponent, is currently second in the standings and could pose a significant threat to Leverkusen’s title ambitions.
Alonso will need to navigate these challenging fixtures carefully, balancing the need to rest his key players and maintaining momentum in the title race.
With twelve games remaining, the Bundesliga title chase remains wide open. Leverkusen will need to continue their impressive form, minimize mistakes, and capitalize on any slip-ups by Bayern Munich if they wish to retain their championship crown.
