Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso has downplayed his unbeaten record against Bayern Munich as both sides prepare to face each other in the UEFA Champions League round of 16 first leg on Wednesday night, Afrosport reports.
The fixture has gained momentum ever since Alonso beat Bayern to the Bundesliga title last season, finishing 18 points ahead of them.
Since Xabi Alonso joined the pharmaceutical-backed club in October 2022, the Spaniard has been unbeaten in six competitive games against them, winning three and drawing the other three.
The former Bayern player however does not read much meaning to the record, believing Wednesday’s clash at the Allianz Arena will be a tough one.
“No secret and it means nothing for [the game],” he said. “[It] is the next game, which is always the most important one. We’re preparing as we always do. We obviously know it’s the Champions League and a bit different than the Bundesliga. The first leg is in Munich. We’re expecting a hard, intense game. Our idea is to play as well as possible. Then we’ll see.”
Fortunes have changed this season with Bayern currently leading the Bundesliga eight points clear of Levekusen, however Alonso’s counterpart, Vincent Kompany, does not see much difference between the two teams.
“It remains, as always, a game between Bayern Munich and Bayer Leverkusen and neither me nor Xabi Alonso can influence the [game],” the Belgian said. “Firstly, I think it’s two teams with a lot of individual qualities, which always influences this game. Both teams have a lot of intensity as well. And then there’s the reality that in three games it’s been three draws.
“Obviously, when you’re talking about those results then there are always different feelings in one or two of those matches. But when you look at how those games went you can say that they really pushed the envelope. So, at the moment there is no big difference between the teams.
“The one thing we do know is obviously that Bayer Leverkusen have earned the right to be seen as a top opponent over the last few years. And that’s why we are excited about this game because it’s simply a top game.”
An all-German tie in the round of 16 🇩🇪#UCL pic.twitter.com/ep08aA0ybS
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) March 5, 2025
Leverkusen made it to the Champions League round of 16 by finishing in the league phase top eight while Bayern needed to get past Celtic in the playoffs.
