Xabi Alonso Style Of Play & Tactics At Bayer Leverkusen 2023/2024 – Tactical Analysis

In the dynamic world of professional football, the allure of titles and financial prospects often dominates players decision-making when choosing their next club.

However, an intangible force can wield equal, if not more, influence: the persuasive power of a revered coach.

Bayer 04 Leverkusen, a club known for its steady performances but lacking the charisma of some Bundesliga giants, has harnessed this power to its advantage.

With limited financial resources, they have managed to make a splash in the transfer market by relying on the reputation and influence of their new head coach, Xabi Alonso.

Xabi Alonso, the Spanish star coach, has instantly captured the attention of potential recruits, making Bayer Leverkusen an enticing destination for many sought-after players.

His illustrious playing career and footballing knowledge have garnered immense respect within the footballing community, and his appointment as the head coach has injected newfound charisma into the factory club.

With several prominent additions citing Xabi Alonso as a critical factor in their decision to join Bayer Leverkusen, the club is embarking on a promising new era.

As the Spanish tactician enters his first full season, there is a palpable sense of optimism surrounding the teams prospects.

The objective is clear: to secure a coveted spot in the premier class of European football.

This tactical analysis will delve into the transformational impact of Xabi Alonsos presence at Bayer Leverkusen in the form of a scout report.

His excellent reputation opens doors that may have otherwise remained closed to the club.

By looking at Bayer Leverkusens transfer strategy and the type of players drawn to the club in this analysis, we will understand Xabi Alonso tactics that he brings to the team.

His footballing philosophy and coaching methods are expected to mould Bayer Leverkusen into a competitive force capable of challenging the Bundesligas traditional powerhouses.

Initial Position

The 2022/23 season was a rollercoaster ride for Bayer 04 Leverkusen, characterised by both struggles and glimpses of promise.

The campaign kicked off with great difficulties, as the team faced several setbacks under former coach Gerardo Seoane.

After a disappointing exit in the first round of the DFB-Pokal against SV Elversberg and seven defeats in the first 11 Bundesliga and UEFA Champions League games, Seoane was relieved of his duties, leaving the club languishing in 17th place on the Bundesliga table.

Enter Xabi Alonso, the Spaniard tasked with turning Leverkusens fortunes around.

Taking over an unsettled side, Alonso faced the daunting task of reinvigorating the teams performance and instilling a winning mentality.

With an emphasis on attacking play and improved defensive organisation, Alonso began to reshape the teams identity and style of play.

Under Alonsos guidance, Bayer Leverkusens attacking prowess shone through, culminating in the sixth-highest goal tally in the league with 57 goals scored throughout the season.

With an average of 1.56 goals per 90 minutes, Leverkusen outperformed their own expected goals (xG) value of 53.86, showcasing their clinical finishing and effectiveness in front of goal.

The defensive improvements under Alonso were evident, with Leverkusen conceding the seventh-fewest goals in the Bundesliga (49), equivalent to 1.34 goals per 90 minutes.

However, it should be noted that they still conceded more goals than their expected goals conceded (xG conceded: 46.09), indicating room for further defensive development.