Bayer Leverkusen: A Tough Start to the Season
In the DFB-Pokal, Bayer Leverkusen secured a narrow victory over Carl Zeiss Jena, thanks to a late header from Jonas Hofmann. Yet, the team was left feeling unfulfilled, with Coach Xabi Alonso admitting their performance was far from their best.
Eighteen-year-old Hamza Muqaj had a chance to equalize for Jena, but his shot narrowly missed the crossbar, leaving his team frustrated but Bayer Leverkusen victorious. After the match, Alonso acknowledged the team's poor performance, stating, "We struggled to create a dynamic and intense game."
Robert Andrich, the team's sports director, echoed Alonso's sentiments, criticizing the team's "inexplicable errors" and lack of focus. Andrich noted that the team only displayed the desired qualities for about 10 minutes out of the 90. "It should serve as a wake-up call," Hofmann predicted, adding that their past efforts were not enough.
The team's subpar display came after an impressive season last year, when they suffered just one defeat and won both the Europa League and the DFB-Pokal. This year has seen several key departures and new signings, with Leverkusen yet to find their rhythm.
The team is looking to strengthen their defense with two acquisitions: defender Nordi Mukiele on loan from Paris Saint-Germain and center-back Odilon Kossounou to Italian Serie A side Atalanta Bergamo, who have the option to purchase his contract.
Bayer's offense struggled in the cup match, with missed shots from Patrick Schick and Amine Adli and the regional league leaders putting up a strong fight. Alonso responded by bringing on Alejandro Grimaldo, who provided the assist for Hofmann's winning goal.
The team is under pressure to improve their performance this season, with several top-tier matches looming, and their poor performance in the DFB-Pokal serves as a reminder of the importance of focus and execution.
Insight
Leverkusen's strategies for achieving sustainable success include focusing on consistent top-four finishes in the Bundesliga, qualifying for the Champions League, and reaching the last 16 in European competitions[1]. They employ player-oriented tactics, particularly in buildup phases, and rotate their squad to maintain player freshness. Leverkusen's out-of-possession game plan includes a high defensive system that can quickly transition into a compact low block, allowing for tactical flexibility. The club also emphasizes team cohesion and player retention, as well as creating an ambitious environment to attract new talent[1][2][3].
