New Delhi: Bayer Leverkusen dominated the 2023-24 season with their stellar performances across all competitions. Under Xabi Alonso’s guidance and managerial prowess, the German club seemed like one of the top dogs of the Bundesliga. They had an amazing season in the Bundesliga, going unbeaten to win their first-ever league title. They also won the DFB-Pokal, getting a domestic double. Their only loss was against Atalanta in the Europa League final. Their strong defence, which let in just 24 goals, was key, with Jonathan Tah standing out.
Their great run included many late goals, scoring in the 85th minute or later 12 times. One of these was a stoppage-time penalty to get a 2-2 draw with Bayern Munich. In the second half of the season, they beat Bayern 3-0, which pretty much decided the title.
As they get ready to defend their title, Leverkusen faces a tough start with five games against top-half teams, including Bayern and Leipzig. With other Bundesliga clubs getting stronger over the summer, this season’s title race will be very exciting.
Bayer Leverkusen’s tactical prospects for the 2024-25 season
LEVERKUSEN, GERMANY – APRIL 14: Xabi Alonso, Head Coach of Bayer Leverkusen, celebrates after the team’s victory and winning the Bundesliga title for the first time in their history in the Bundesliga match between Bayer 04 Leverkusen and SV Werder Bremen at BayArena on April 14, 2024 in Leverkusen, Germany. (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)
Bayer Leverkusen is gearing up for the new Bundesliga season, having played only two friendly matches so far. They managed a close 2-1 victory over RW Essen and then had a 2-2 draw with Lens. They will soon face tougher opponents, with upcoming games against Arsenal and Real Betis.
Last season, Xabi Alonso brought a dynamic and fluid structure to the club. He mostly used the 3-4-3 formation, with players in the middle overloading the midfield to dominate the opposition build-up. The essence of Spanish football styles like Tiki-Taka was prevalent in his approach. The slow build-up from the back to quick one-two touches in the opposition half while wing-backs overlapping the flanks played a key role in their success. In the pre-season friendlies, a similar approach was found.
Bayer Leverkusen’s attack starts right from the goalkeeper. They lure opponents to press high, then use quick, short passes to break through and move from defence to attack fast. They often attack down the wings, thanks to their speedy wingers, some of the fastest in the Bundesliga.
Xabi Alonso likes his defensive line to push forward. Central midfielders move around to create space and keep the ball moving. The striker stays near the penalty box, keeping the centre-backs busy. The number 10 plays between the opponent’s midfield and defence, linking up with the striker or the wingers. They play short passes to draw in the opponents and then use through balls to exploit the space behind.
Leverkusen likes to play most of the game in the opponent’s half. By controlling possession there, they can dictate the game’s pace and limit the opponent’s chances. This means they press high and keep a high defensive line.
The formation is flexible as well. If the opponent breaks through their high press, the wide midfielders drop back, changing from a 3-4-3 to a 5-2-3. Against strong possession teams like Bayern Munich, they switch to a 5-4-1. The wingers drop into midfield, and the striker stays up to relieve pressure on the defence.
Transfers analysis
ESSEN, GERMANY – JULY 26: Martin Terrier of Leverkusen runs with the ball during the pre-season friendly match between Rot-Weiss Essen and Bayer 04 Leverkusen at Stadion an der Hafenstrasse on July 26, 2024 in Essen, Germany. (Photo by Christof Koepsel/Getty Images)
Bayer Leverkusen is on the verge of losing key individuals like Jonathan Tah to clubs like Bayern Munich. Additionally, squad players have departed, impacting the team. Sardar Azmoun moved to Shabab Al-Ahli Club, while Patrick Pentz joined Bröndby IF. Young talent Iker Bravo signed with Udinese Calcio, and Noah Mbamba went on loan to Fortuna Düsseldorf. Timothy Fosu-Mensah left as a free agent, and Josip Stanisic returned to Bayern Munich and Borja Iglesias returned to Real Betis after their loan ended.
Meanwhile, the German club has strengthened its squad for the 2024/25 season, spending €53 million on new signings. Martin Terrier, a 27-year-old left winger from Stade Rennais FC, was acquired for €20 million. Known for his pace and goal-scoring, he will boost Leverkusen’s attack. Aleix García, a 27-year-old central midfielder from Girona FC, joins for €18 million, adding creativity and control in midfield.
In defence, 19-year-old Jeanuël Belocian from Stade Rennais FC was signed for €15 million, offering strong tackling and composure. Promoted from the U19 team are Iker Bravo, a centre-forward, and Matija Marsenic, a central midfielder, both 19, who are expected to develop into key players.
Bayer Leverkusen’s official season kicks off on August 17 when they take on Stuttgart in the German Super Cup. Their Bundesliga campaign starts on August 23, 2024, with a match against Borussia Mönchengladbach.
Early Predictions: UEFA Champions League qualification on the horizon
Bayer Leverkusen is expected to face a challenging season ahead. While their strengthened squad and tactical adjustments make them strong contenders, repeating their Bundesliga title win seems unlikely given the competitive landscape. Instead, their focus will likely shift towards securing a spot in the UEFA Champions League. With new signings enhancing their depth and quality, Leverkusen should be well-positioned to qualify for Europe’s premier club competition. However, balancing domestic and European commitments will be crucial to achieving their goals for the upcoming season.
Bayer Leverkusen is gearing up for the new Bundesliga season, having played only two friendly matches so far. Under Xabi Alonso’s guidance and managerial prowess, the German club seemed like one of the top dogs of the Bundesliga. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
