Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso has found a unique way to motivate his players during training. Striker Victor Boniface explains how.
Earlier this season, a video showcasing Xabi Alonso's impressive skills during a training session at Leverkusen went viral. In it, Alonso effortlessly delivered one perfect pass after another directly to his players' feet.
"Having him participate in the training is a boost for us," Boniface tells Kicker. "Imagine your coach being better than you during training. That makes you want to improve yourself. I think he does it to push us, and that's very good for us." This hands-on approach by Alonso not only enhances training sessions but also sets a high benchmark for performance, motivating players like Boniface to elevate their game.
Boniface also reminisced about Leverkusen's recent title celebration following their emphatic 5-0 win over Werder Bremen, where he netted the first goal. "You had to be there to describe it," he says. The celebration was evidently joyous and intense, as Boniface chuckles while recalling, "Some had a tough time at training the next day." The team's awareness of their schedule allowed them to manage their celebrations, knowing they had a crucial upcoming match against West Ham. "As footballers, we knew what we were doing. Everyone knew during the celebration and drinking that we had an important match coming up."
Despite facing challenges such as a significant injury that sidelined him for a good portion of the season, Boniface displayed resilience and skill by scoring eleven goals in just nineteen Bundesliga matches. His comeback and performance are testaments to his determination and the effective coaching and support from Alonso. This synergy between player effort and coaching strategy not only recovered Boniface’s season but also contributed significantly to Leverkusen’s successful campaign.
This combination of strategic training, effective player management, and strong leadership under Alonso clearly illustrates why Leverkusen has been successful. Alonso’s role is not just about tactics and gameplay; his ability to inspire and push his players to exceed their limits plays a crucial part in the team's achievements. This holistic approach to coaching is what makes his tenure at Leverkusen particularly noteworthy.
