After Champions League Departure, Leverkusen Shifts Attention to Bundesliga and DFB Pokal

Bayer Leverkusen’s manager, Xabi Alonso, remarked on Friday that their upcoming away fixture against Stuttgart on Sunday presents a much-needed test following their recent exit from the Champions League at the hands of Bayern Munich.

Leverkusen lost 2-0 at home to Bayern on Tuesday, resulting in a 5-0 aggregate defeat in the last 16 of the Champions League. To compound their woes, they also experienced a surprising home defeat against Werder Bremen in the Bundesliga last week, marking three consecutive losses across all competitions.

“It’s fortunate that this match comes along now, but it’s undoubtedly going to be a challenging one,” Alonso conveyed during a press conference. “We need to remain professional and take it one game at a time.”

“Stuttgart are among the finest teams in Germany, and they are poised to put on a tough battle,” Alonso commented about last year’s Bundesliga runners-up.

“In light of our Champions League exit, our objectives are clear: we must focus on the Bundesliga and strive to win as many matches as possible, and of course, the cup as well.”

Last season’s domestic double winners, Leverkusen, are currently sitting in second place in the Bundesliga, trailing eight points behind Bayern.

They have also secured a spot in the semi-finals of the German Cup and are set to face third-tier side Arminia Bielefeld next month.

“A major goal for us is to maintain good emotional control. We can’t let a victory lead us to complacency, nor can we let a third consecutive defeat weigh us down,” Alonso stated.

“It’s important that we don’t allow these moments to have too significant an effect. We need to uphold the same mentality and preparation, keeping our trust and conviction in our approach. We must remain grounded, even during the tough times.”