The Bundesliga leaders go into the top game against FC Bayern undefeated. In addition: Exequiel Palacios is still out.
Coach Xabi Alonso from Bundesliga leaders Bayer Leverkusen was confident before the top game against FC Bayern. “We’ve had a great season so far – and yet we’re only two points ahead. Bayern are champions. They have the winning DNA, but we’re ready,” said the Spaniard before the top duel on Saturday.
Alonso does not see the fact that the second-place team in the Bundesliga has recently had to struggle with injury concerns as an advantage. “We are facing the best German team with the highest individual quality,” replied the Spaniard, whose team could extend their lead in the table to five points with a win.
In the event of a defeat, Bayern would pass again. “I expect a big, intense and emotional game with high quality. We need an almost perfect performance,” said Alonso.
The 42-year-old has almost the entire choice of personnel. Bayer will continue to miss midfielder Exequiel Palacios after suffering a muscle injury. The risk is still too great, said Alonso: “Of course the game is important, but there are still many games waiting for us before the end of the season.” In addition to him, the injured Victor Boniface and Odilon Kossounou (Africa Cup) are also missing.