Bayer Leverkusen Wins First Bundesliga Title, Remains Focused on Europa League

Bayer Leverkusen has made history by winning the Bundesliga title for the first time in the club's history. The team clinched the championship with a commanding 5-0 victory over Werder Bremen on Sunday. The win marks a significant achievement for Leverkusen, which has been a consistent contender in the German league for many years but had never before lifted the trophy.

Despite the historic celebrations, Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso insists that the team's focus is now on defending their 2-0 lead in the second leg of the Europa League quarter-final against West Ham. Alonso revealed that while the players had one day to enjoy the title win, their minds are now firmly set on the upcoming European match.

"The players had a day to enjoy the moment, but we are now completely focused on the Europa League game against West Ham," Alonso said in a press conference. "We have a 2-0 lead from the first leg, but we cannot take anything for granted. West Ham is a strong team and we need to be at our best to advance to the semi-finals."

Former Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka, who joined Leverkusen this season, expressed pride in being part of the team's impressive performance. "To win the Bundesliga in my first season here is an unbelievable feeling," Xhaka said. "We have exceeded expectations and I am proud to be part of this historic moment for the club."

Leverkusen's title win comes as a surprise to many, especially after Bayern Munich's high-profile signing of Harry Kane was expected to lead them to another Bundesliga crown. However, Leverkusen's consistency and tactical discipline under Alonso's leadership proved to be the key factors in their success.

Why this matters: Bayer Leverkusen's Bundesliga title win marks a significant shift in the German football landscape, ending Bayern Munich's 11-year dominance of the league. The victory also highlights the importance of team cohesion and tactical strategy in achieving success, even in the face of star-studded opponents.

Looking ahead, Leverkusen remains in contention for a treble this season. In addition to their Bundesliga title and ongoing Europa League campaign, the team will face Kaiserslautern in the German Cup final on May 25. "We have already achieved something special by winning the Bundesliga, but we want more," Alonso said. "The team is hungry for success and we will give our all in every competition."

Key Takeaways

• Bayer Leverkusen won their first-ever Bundesliga title with a 5-0 victory over Werder Bremen.
• Manager Xabi Alonso urged focus on the Europa League quarter-final against West Ham, despite celebrations.
• Midfielder Granit Xhaka expressed pride in Leverkusen's historic achievement in his first season.
• Leverkusen's title win ended Bayern Munich's 11-year Bundesliga dominance, highlighting team cohesion.
• Leverkusen remains in contention for a treble, having also reached the German Cup final.