Coach Xabi Alonso stated on Sunday that Bayer Leverkusen’s perfect run to their first Bundesliga title was well-deserved and that it was a pleasure to be a part of a memorable day for the team.
With five games remaining in the season, his squad had earlier destroyed Werder Bremen 5-0 to establish a 16-point lead over eliminated champion Bayern Munich.
They had also won their first trophy in 31 years to the jubilant cheers of 30,000 fans at home.
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“We wanted to play games with a good mentality this season and the players quickly started working well together.
“After the first few matches we saw this team can play really good football,” Alonso told a press conference.
“But to achieve this in such a way was a top performance.
“Finally it is an honour to say that Leverkusen are champions.
“It is totally deserved for the team, fans and the club.”
The 42-year-old Spaniard, who assumed leadership in October 2022, has the opportunity to win further championships this year as his squad advances to both the quarterfinals of the Europa League and the German Cup.
“It is a big success for the club. The first time is special for everyone.
“We can say we were part of this big day for Bayer Leverkusen. It feels great,” said Alonso, who will stay on at the club despite major interest from top European teams.
Leverkusen has now gone 43 games without a loss in all competitions, and they have now gone 29 games without a loss in a single Bundesliga season.
“We did not talk much about the title in the changing room but it was in our heads that this year we could be champions,” said Alonso.
“Now we must enjoy the moment. It has been a totally intense season so far and it is not yet over. We cannot forget it.”
“Now this is behind us and we still have big goals this season,” he said before the players stormed into the room showering their coach with beer.
After winning the first leg 2-0, Leverkusen will play their Europa League return match at West Ham United next week.