Xabi Alonso’s Tactical Symphony: A look into the Maestro’s Coaching Brilliance
Pep Guardiola, Jose Mourinho, Rafa Benitez, Carlo Ancelotti, and Vicente del Bosque—all influential figures in football management. They have collectively contributed to shaping the strategic brilliance of the Black Horse in the world of luxury cars: the charismatic Xabi Alonso.
Under the leadership of “La Barba Roja,” Bayer Leverkusen has etched its name in German football history, maintaining an unbeaten streak in the initial 25 matches of the season. Winning 22 matches and drawing three, they have scored 81 goals while conceding only 18. Their impressive defensive record includes keeping a clean sheet in 11 matches.
https://twitter.com/bayer04_en/status/1737881616565891102?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1737881616565891102%7Ctwgr%5Ec73b4d70342466c6bf38c0d81c8c9dcf82939352%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fsportsgazette.co.uk%2Fwp-admin%2Fpost.php%3Fpost%3D50856action%3Deditclassic-editorclassic-editor__forget
Can the new Spanish coach bring an end to Bayern Munich’s dominance in the German league? How did he quickly rise to the top? Can he recreate the remarkable 2002 season and overcome the legendary “Bayer Neverkusen” story?
Following Bayer Leverkusen’s defeat by Real Madrid in the Champions League final, Oliver Neuville collapsed on the field.
Everyone loves Xabi Alonso
During his career, Xabi Alonso clinched 19 significant trophies across playing spells with three clubs, in addition to his accomplishments with the national team. Having retired in 2017, he is widely regarded as one of the best in the game.
After retiring from professional football, Xabi Alonso went back to Spain to obtain his coaching badges with Real Madrid. On June 1, 2019, he took on his first management role as the manager of Real Sociedad B. This was significant as it provided him with valuable on-the-job learning, minus the intense pressures experienced by other midfield legends like Vieira, Lampard and Gerrard.
After two successful seasons at Sociedad B, during which he achieved promotion from the Second Division B. Alonso, in a manner reminiscent of his playing days, makes decisions on his terms, precisely when he deems it appropriate.
The choice to appoint Xabi Alonso at Bayer Leverkusen was a bold move, taking over from Gerardo Seoane. Despite Seoane having a rough start to the season, he was still regarded as an accomplished manager, in contrast to the young and emerging image associated with Alonso.
Fever Dreams
Alonso stunned the Bundesliga with an immediate impact, securing a four-nil victory over Schalke. The same group of players, who had managed only one goal in their previous three matches, experienced a notable turnaround under his leadership. In his debut top-flight football match, Alonso implemented a distinct formation and approach, deviating entirely from the tactics employed by the previous regime.
However, as we all know, football is a demanding sport, and it’s not always filled with rainbows and sunshine. Alonso endured a six-game winless streak, including a three-nil home loss to Porto—the team responsible for the previous managers’ dismissal. Surprisingly, this difficult period became the catalyst for Alonso to initiate a turnaround. A mediocre half of the season sees Leverkusen finishing in 6th position in Bundesliga with 50 points.
During the UEFA Europa League semi-final match between Bayer Leverkusen and AS Roma.
A strategic overhaul reflected by his vision and showcasing the culmination of lessons learned from his illustrious playing career, saw Alonso bring a fresh perspective to his role as a manager. Parting ways with six first-team players, with Moussa Diaby being a notable departure. At the same time, he worked on bringing in eight new players.
One year into his coaching journey, Alonso takes pride in crafting a team that mirrors his playing style—a mixture of the unyielding mentality of seasoned warriors and the creative finesse of a midfield artist. Following an impressive performance against Bayern Munich, he emphasized, “We played at the same level today, showcasing character and the distinctive quality and mentality that define us. This forms the foundation we aim to strengthen. While challenges lie ahead, unity is crucial. It’s part of football and the season, and, so far, we’re feeling positive.”
A strategic project in place
In his tactical approach, Alonso seamlessly integrates possession-based football with rapid transitions, creating a multifaceted threat for opponents. Leverkusen’s impressive attacking strength, spearheaded by top scorer Victor Boniface, vividly demonstrates Alonso’s adept player development skills.
https://twitter.com/bayer04_en/status/1738651690503463145
Leverkusen’s current squad also reflects Alonso’s strategic signings and emphasis on player roles. His choice of the 3-4-3 playing system, with specific roles assigned to the five defenders and an equal number entrusted with offensive responsibilities.
The inclusion of players like Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong in key positions highlights Alonso’s commitment to optimizing individual strengths within the team structure.
https://twitter.com/fbwonderkids/status/1741233967053836726
Alongside the coach’s impact, Bayer Leverkusen shows essential flexibility in all positions, greatly influenced by Alonso’s background. As a former midfielder bridging attack and defense, he values quality and resilience in the final third, ensuring a consistent supply line. The team holds the second-highest possession rate in the Bundesliga, around 58%, and boasts a passing accuracy of 90.2%, establishing them as passing masters in the league.
Alonso’s journey reflects a new generation of managers blending playing experiences with diverse coaching influences. As he seeks success and ponders potential “unfinished business” at certain clubs. The football world eagerly awaits where Xabi Alonso’s coaching journey will lead.
