Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso on VfB Stuttgart: “For me, they are one of the best teams in Europe this season.”

Speaking at his press conference ahead of Bayer Leverkusen’s game against VfB Stuttgart, Xabi Alonso gave his opinion on the surprise team in the Bundesliga this season.

When asked about Stuttgart, Alonso said: “Stuttgart play really well, they have a good trainer, players and play attractive football. We are ready for an intensive game. They are flexible and good with the ball, for me, they are one of the best teams in Europe this season.” 

The two games between Leverkusen and Stuttgart have been some of the best in Germany this season. The first game saw them play out a 1-1 draw at the MHP Arena where Stuttgart gave Leverkusen a run for their money. 

While the second game was in the DFB-Pokal quarter-final and saw Leverkusen twice come from behind and eventually score a winner in the 90th minute to send them through to the semi-finals. 

With Stuttgart still pushing for Champions League football and Leverkusen hoping to maintain their unbeaten run, the third meeting between the teams this season is set to be another exciting tie. 

However, going into the game Leverkusen will be without Granit Xhaka who is suspended after picking up his fifth yellow card of the season in Leverkusen’s late 1-1 draw with Borussia Dortmund last weekend.

GGFN | Jack Meenan