Speaking at his press conference ahead of Bayer Leverkusen against Werder Bremen, Xabi Alonso looked ahead to Sunday, the day which Leverkusen can make themselves Bundesliga champions.
When asked about the fact that Leverkusen can become champions on Sunday, Alonso said: “It is a special part of the game that we have the chance to become champions. But to do that we want to be focused and perform with our quality and mentality. We want to continue to perform consistently, we want to play well. But first, we have to prepare well and with respect for the opponent.”
It is said that there may be a pitch invasion if Leverkusen win on Sunday, when asked about the possibility, Alonso said: “The most important thing is that we can celebrate something after the game. It’s a special moment for the club. Of course, we need a good pitch afterwards, we still have a few games left in the BayArena. But the fans deserve to celebrate.” Alonso added: “It’s important not to think too much about what happens afterwards. Of course, we want to celebrate here at home with our fans. I have confidence that the team will work with concentration and deserve the win.”
However, there are two scenarios that cannot be ruled out. One is that Leverkusen do not win on Sunday and the title confirmation will be pushed back to next weekend against Borussia Dortmund. The other is that Leverkusen can be crowned champions on Saturday if Bayern Munich lose to 1.FC Köln and VfB Stuttgart lose to Eintracht Frankfurt. When asked about the prospect of becoming champions on Saturday, Alonso said: “If we become champions on Saturday on the sofa, that would be a big surprise for me. To be honest: I would rather celebrate the victory on the pitch.”
Leverkusen are currently 16 points clear of Bayern and Stuttgart in the Bundesliga and remains unbeaten in all competitions. They also still have the possibility of winning three trophies in a season with them on the verge of their maiden Bundesliga win, in the final of the DFB-Pokal as well as in the quarter-finals of the Europa League after a 2-0 win against West Ham in the first leg.
With a potential triumph in three competitions still available, this could remove not only the idea of ‘Neverkusen or Vizekusen’ but also reduce some of the pain experienced 22 years ago.
GGFN | Jack Meenan
