Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso mentioned Thursday that Bayern Munich are the Bundesliga title favourites this season, regardless of his facet’s unimaginable league and cup double final marketing campaign. “For me, the favourites are Bayern, that is clear,” Alonso mentioned at a press convention forward of Friday’s Bundesliga season opener away at Borussia Moenchengladbach. “Our purpose is to remain within the high 4. That’s reasonable — we have now a superb squad.”
Leverkusen received the Bundesliga for the primary time in membership historical past, condemning Bayern to a primary trophyless season since 2011-12 and ending their 11-year reign in Germany.
In addition to new coach Vincent Kompany, Bayern have had a busy summer season, bringing in Michael Olise and Joao Palhinha from the Premier League and Hiroki Ito from Stuttgart.
Leverkusen haven’t misplaced a match in Germany in May 2023.
Last season they grew to become the primary facet to undergo a Bundesliga marketing campaign unbeaten, whereas claiming the German Cup alongside a run to the Europa League ultimate.
Leverkusen kicked off the brand new season final weekend by beating Stuttgart on penalties within the German Super Cup after a 2-2 draw.
Alonso mentioned Leverkusen’s title-winning season, throughout which they misplaced simply certainly one of 53 matches in all competitions, was “previously”.
“Last 12 months was very nice… however we’re ranging from scratch once more,” he mentioned.
“We must earn the whole lot once more. We must win our factors and for that we want good performances.
“We know each recreation shall be tough — and that would be the case towards Gladbach.”
Alonso mentioned everybody could be accessible for the journey to derby rivals Gladbach except Argentina midfielder Exequiel Palacios, who has a knee harm.
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