How Bayer Leverkusen Became Invincible in the Bundesliga

Bayer Leverkusen are having a dream season in the Bundesliga. The league leaders have not lost a single game in 23 matches, and have set a new record for the most unbeaten games in German football history. They have scored 57 goals, the most in the league, and have conceded only 17, the second-fewest. They have also beaten Bayern Munich, their closest rivals, twice in the league, and once in the DFB-Pokal. How did they achieve such a remarkable feat? Here are some of the key factors behind their success.

Xabi Alonso: The Mastermind

The former Bayern Munich and Real Madrid midfielder took over as Leverkusen’s head coach in July 2022, and has transformed the team into a well-oiled machine. Alonso has implemented a fluid and dynamic style of play, based on high pressing, quick transitions, and creative combinations. He has also instilled a winning mentality and a strong team spirit among his players, who have shown great resilience and determination in every game. Alonso has been praised by fans and pundits alike for his tactical acumen and his ability to get the best out of his squad.

Granit Xhaka: The Leader

The Swiss international joined Leverkusen from Arsenal in January 2023, and has been a revelation in the midfield. Xhaka has been the captain and the engine of the team, providing leadership, stability, and quality. He has scored six goals and provided eight assists in the league, and has also been a defensive rock, making the most tackles, interceptions, and clearances in the team. Xhaka has also scored some spectacular goals, such as his long-range strike against Mainz that opened the scoring in their record-breaking 33rd unbeaten game.

Amine Adli: The Sensation

The French youngster was signed from Toulouse in the summer of 2022, and has been a revelation in the Bundesliga. Adli has been the top scorer and the top assist provider for Leverkusen, with 15 goals and 12 assists in the league. He has also been the most dribbled, the most fouled, and the most creative player in the team, creating 74 chances and completing 103 dribbles. Adli has been a nightmare for defenders with his pace, skill, and flair, and has scored some stunning goals, such as his solo effort against Heidenheim that sealed their 32nd unbeaten game.

The Supporting Cast

Leverkusen have not been a one-man or a two-man show. They have been a collective force, with every player contributing to their success. The defense has been solid, with Jonathan Tah, Piero Hincapié, and Josip Stanišić forming a reliable back three, and Odilon Kossounou returning from the Africa Cup of Nations with a winner’s medal. The wing-backs have been dynamic, with Jeremie Frimpong and Moussa Diaby providing width, pace, and goals. The midfield has been balanced, with Robert Andrich, Florian Wirtz, and Nadiem Amiri providing energy, creativity, and versatility. The attack has been lethal, with Patrik Schick, Lucas Alario, and Paulinho providing firepower, movement, and variety.

The Challenges Ahead

Leverkusen have been unstoppable so far, but they still have 11 games left to play in the league, and they also have to contend with the Champions League, where they will face Manchester City in the round of 16. They will face some tough opponents, such as RB Leipzig, Borussia Dortmund, and Wolfsburg, who will try to stop their unbeaten run and challenge their title aspirations. They will also have to deal with injuries, fatigue, and pressure, as they chase history and glory. Can they maintain their form and their focus, and become the first Bundesliga team ever to go through a whole season unbeaten? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: they have already written their name in the history books of German football.