Newly crowned Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen haven’t let their title celebrations distract from their Europa League ambitions, according to manager Xabi Alonso.
Clinching the league title with a dominant 5-0 win over Werder Bremen last weekend, Leverkusen enter the second leg of their Europa League quarter-final against West Ham United with a comfortable 2-0 lead. Despite their advantage, Alonso emphasizes their focus is solely on Thursday’s match.
“We knew after the first leg that Sunday presented a great opportunity,” Alonso said at a press conference. “We planned a day of celebration if we won, but as of Tuesday, all our focus has shifted to West Ham. There will be time to reflect later.”
West Ham manager David Moyes playfully remarked on Leverkusen’s potential post-championship celebrations. Alonso acknowledged the festivities but stressed their preparation for the upcoming match. “They likely enjoyed a few beers, but not excessively,” he said. “We had control to prepare for tomorrow and celebrate appropriately. Now, let’s talk about West Ham.”
Expecting a typical high-energy London crowd, Alonso anticipates a thrilling atmosphere. “English supporters are known for their passion, and West Ham fans will definitely be pushing their team,” he said. “It’s a quarter-final, a major European opportunity, so we have all the ingredients for a special night. I feel good about the team’s readiness.”
Leverkusen’s current 43-game unbeaten run across all competitions inspires confidence in Alonso. “The team hasn’t given me any reason to doubt them,” he said. “Their commitment, concentration, and mentality have been outstanding, so I have no doubts going into tomorrow’s match, even after a significant success.”
