Bayer Leverkusen: Fairytale story, here is how Xabi Alonso led his side to a first ever Bundesliga title (PHOTOS)

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German outfit Bayer Leverkusen have been crowned Bundesliga champions for the 2023/2024 season. 

Leverkusen have become the first side to depose Bayern Munich at the helm since Jurgen Klopp’s Borussia Dortmund did in the 2011/2012. The club’s 5-nil victory over Werder Bremen confirmed they have been crowned champions with 5 games to play. 

So far the club have done it in most remarkable fashion having gone unbeaten all season. Much plaudits go to Spanish gaffer Xabi Alonso who came aboard last term. The club’s style of play has been totally revamped with the high-flying wingbacks. 

“It feels great. I have the feeling this is not just for us, this is for so many people that have been chasing this dream for so many years,” Alonso said after the game. “Past coaches are part of it as well. It is very special when it is the first time for everything, and this is the most difficult title probably.”

Xabi Alonso’s side took the lead midway through the first half when striker Victor Boniface newly returning from injury converted a penalty, summer signing from Arsenal Granit Xhaka doubled their advantage on the hour mark while Florian Wirtz came off the bench to score a hat-trick to end arguably the greatest outing for the club at the Bay Arena as they claimed their first league title.

Many followers of the sport have taken to social media to congratulate the club. Eight-time Bundesliga champion and Alonso’s former teammate remarked “Congratulations to the team of Bayer Leverkusen, to Xabi Alonso and his coaching staff, as well as to the entire club and its fans on a great season.

The control of play and the confidence that the team has developed under the leadership of Xabi Alonso are outstanding. A very well-deserved win of the Deutsche Meisterschaft! The old marketing gag “Vizekusen” can finally be laid to rest.”

Bundesliga legend Jürgen Klinsmann also went ahead to congratulate the club stating “What a fairytale season for Bayer 04 Leverkusen and all of its fans. I can only admire coach Xabi Alonso and his staff with all the players and helpers to such an incredible season.

They played the most exciting football all year long and proved game after game that you never give up until the referee blows the final whistle. Huge compliment and congratulations to Bayer 04 Leverkusen.”