The coach of Bayer Leverkusen made it a point to mention some of his predecessors.
Bayer Leverkusen secured their first-ever Bundesliga title in a spectacular fashion this Sunday, with a commanding 5-0 victory over Werder Bremen.
The win, which came with five matches still left in the season, was so emphatic that it led to a joyous pitch invasion by the fans, celebrating a historic moment for the club.
In the aftermath of this monumental victory, during a press conference, Xabi Alonso, the head coach of Bayer Leverkusen, took a moment to reflect on the significance of the achievement not only for himself but also for those who laid the groundwork for this success. Alonso emphasized that the triumph was a collective effort extending beyond the current squad and staff. He acknowledged the contributions of former coaches who had shaped the team's philosophy and built the foundation for such success.
"Christoph Daum, Klaus Toppmöller, Roger Schmidt, and many others. These are names that have each played a part in building this club's legacy. This championship is as much theirs as it is ours today," Alonso remarked, highlighting the continuum of effort and leadership that characterizes top sports teams. By mentioning these figures, Alonso illustrated his respect and recognition for the historical contributions that led to this crowning achievement.
Roger Schmidt, mentioned specifically by Alonso and now coaching Benfica, was noted for his dynamic approach during his tenure at Leverkusen, which has evidently left a lasting impact on the club's tactical ethos. Alonso's gesture of sharing the title with past coaches not only underscores the collaborative nature of football but also reinforces the sense of continuity and community within the club.
This championship marks a pivotal moment for Bayer Leverkusen, not just as their first Bundesliga title but as a testament to their growth and evolution as a top-flight German club. As the celebrations continue, Alonso's comments remind everyone involved—players, staff, fans—that such achievements are the culmination of years of dedication and teamwork, spanning several administrations and playing styles. This shared victory serves as a unifying milestone for the entire Leverkusen community, past and present.
