Xabi Alonso expressed his joy by stating that the sensation is extraordinary after Bayer Leverkusen secured their first Bundesliga title with five games remaining thanks to a 5-0 triumph over Werder Bremen.
Bayern Munich’s victory over Cologne on Saturday delayed Leverkusen’s title celebrations by at least a day. However, when the final whistle blew at BayArena on Sunday, Alonso’s team was met with scenes of jubilation.
“We must savor and revel in today with our loved ones, friends, and supporters,” said Alonso, who was drenched in beer following the win as part of a German tradition. “This was my inaugural season as a coach, and the sentiment is indescribable.”
Leverkusen’s triumph in the Bundesliga has been anticipated for weeks now, creating a sense of inevitability. The question has shifted from ‘if’ to ‘when’ the club would secure their first Meisterschale, the championship shield.
Prior to kick-off, the BayArena was filled with an atmosphere of excitement as fans eagerly welcomed the Leverkusen team bus with confetti and flares. Werder keeper Michael Zetterer momentarily halted premature celebrations by denying Piero Hincapie’s attempt to tap in Nathan Tella’s cross in the early stages of the game.
However, the home crowd erupted in joy when Boniface converted a penalty kick after a video assistant referee check confirmed Julian Malatini’s obstruction of Jonas Hofmann in the penalty area. Just before halftime, Werder came close to spoiling Leverkusen’s celebration, but Marvin Ducksch failed to direct his glancing header towards the goal.
Xhaka’s exceptional 25-yard shot in the 60th minute firmly established Alonso’s side in control, and Wirtz surpassed the former Arsenal midfielder with his own impressive long-range effort. Play resumed swiftly after supporters returned to their seats following Wirtz’s second goal, but the pitch was once again flooded with a sea of red and black shirts when the 20-year-old swept home
Leverkusen’s fifth goal, prompting the referee to blow the final whistle. It is worth noting that Leverkusen were in the relegation zone when Alonso assumed charge in October 2022. In a remarkable turnaround, they have now become Bundesliga champions in just under 18 months.