Bayer Leverkusen can add extra shine to their season by winning the Europa League on Wednesday evening. The newly crowned champions of Germany are certainly not nervous, as evidenced by the words of Granit Xhaka.
This was also noticed by one of the journalists at the press conference ahead of the match against Atalanta.
When he asked the Leverkusen delegation why the squad didn’t seem to be affected by nerves, Xhaka saw his chance. "We drink blood every morning. We don’t feel it anymore," joked the midfielder. This elicited a lot of laughter in the press room.
Xhaka further explained that winning the Europa League was not at the top of Leverkusen’s wish list. "Our main goal was to win the Bundesliga," he explained. "Our second goal was to win this competition. We will do everything we can to return to Germany with the trophy."
Reflecting on his past experiences, Xhaka, who has played ten matches in the Europa League this season, has already lost the final of the tournament once. That was in 2019, when Chelsea defeated Arsenal 4-1. "Life always gives you a second chance. And when you get a second chance, you give it your all," he said, emphasizing his determination to seize the opportunity this time around.
The Swiss international also addressed the perception of Atalanta being the underdog in the final. "If you beat Liverpool and Marseille, you’re a good team and deserve to be in the final," Xhaka asserted, acknowledging the Italian side's impressive journey in the competition. He praised their resilience and quality, which have earned them a spot in the decisive match.
Leverkusen's journey to the final has been marked by impressive performances and strategic victories. The team has shown a blend of tactical discipline and attacking flair, making them a formidable opponent. With Xhaka's leadership and experience, Leverkusen aims to cap off their season with European glory, adding to their domestic success.
As the final approaches, the atmosphere within the Leverkusen camp is one of confidence and focus. The players are well aware of the significance of the match and the chance to make history for the club. Xhaka’s light-hearted remark about drinking blood every morning reflects a relaxed yet determined mindset, crucial for handling the pressure of such high-stakes games.
The upcoming final against Atalanta promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams eager to lift the Europa League trophy. For Leverkusen, it’s an opportunity to showcase their growth and ambition on the European stage, while for Xhaka, it’s a chance to rewrite past disappointments and achieve a long-awaited triumph.
