Initially regarded as dark horses, Bayer Leverkusen have blasted out of the gates in the 2023-24 Bundesliga season, carving their mark in the record books with some stunning performances so far.
They have a remarkable 25-match undefeated record to start the season (22 wins, three draws), something no side in German professional football has done before.
With 42 points at the conclusion of the season, four more than Bayern Munich (who have a game in hand), Leverkusen’s domination under the renowned Spanish midfielder is clear. Alonso’s technical ability and savvy leadership have instilled in the Leverkusen ranks a feeling of invincibility, kindling real optimism for their first-ever Bundesliga triumph after 119 years of waiting.
When Alonso took over in October 2022, his influence was immediate. He started with a 4-0 win against Schalke, the largest debut victory for a Leverkusen boss.
However, a six-game losing skid ensued, highlighting the necessity for the former Real Madrid and Real Sociedad youth coach to restore the team’s confidence. His efforts paid off with a two-month undefeated streak in March and April. Alonso, a player used to winning, has instilled that mindset in his club more than a year into his stay and with a group rebuilt in his image.
A visit to the Allianz Arena in September, on the other hand, provided a distinct difficulty. For the first time this season, Leverkusen found themselves behind, forcing them to adjust their tactics and fighting spirit. They did it with tenacity, finally drawing 2-2 with the champs.
“I think we played on the same level today,” Alonso said after the thrilling 2-2 draw against his old club Bayern Munich.
“We demonstrated personality. We have shown quality. We’ve shown mindset, and that’s the primary thing we want to build on. And there will be bad times, which is when we must band together. That’s part of football and part of the season, but we’re feeling fantastic so far,” Alonso continued.
The wonderful feeling that Leverkusen has had under Alonso is more than a passing fad: it’s a crucial element for the lengthy season ahead, which includes DFB Cup and Europa League competitions. Their excellent Bundesliga start is only the beginning.
In addition to their league supremacy, Leverkusen’s flawless run in the Europa League group stage (one of just 12 teams to ever attain a 100% record) and DFB Cup quarterfinal spot reinforced their extraordinary comeback.
The departure of top striker Moussa Diaby at the start of the season aroused suspicions, but Leverkusen managed the finances smartly, signing four vital players.
Granit Xhaka, an Arsenal experienced captain, adds experience and midfield control. Jonas Hofmann, a proven Bundesliga star, brings offensive flair to the team. Alejandro Grimaldo, a free move from Benfica, strengthens the left wing-back position, while Victor Boniface, last year’s Europa League best scorer, gives instant firepower up front. Each has melded easily into the squad, adding to its exceptional cohesiveness.
Alonso’s effect on Leverkusen goes beyond tactics and into mental toughness. While overcoming a full season’s mental challenge will take time, his influence on the field is already obvious. Leverkusen’s offensive prowess is clear, as they have scored 46 goals in 16 Bundesliga games, with just four of their 13 victories coming by a single goal.
It took some time to find the perfect system and personnel, but Alonso has finally achieved the required balance with his 3-4-3 formation, which has five devoted defenders and five attackers. Passing statistics for the Black and Reds have increased since the 2022-23 season, demonstrating the former midfield maestro’s effect on both playing style and confidence.
However, Leverkusen’s history is littered with agonizing close calls. The famed “Neverkusen” epithet derives from heartbreaks like as the 2002 triple miss with runners-up results in the Bundesliga, DFB Cup, and Champions League, or the Bundesliga championship slipping from their hands on the last day two years earlier.
As a multiple-time champion, Alonso knows the need of addressing these mental wounds in his first senior head coaching post. Overcoming “Neverkusen” is much more than simply techniques; it’s about developing a champion’s mindset. If Leverkusen wants to surpass its five second-place results, Alonso must not only improve their on-field abilities but also build a squad that is resilient to previous demons.