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14.11.2023Bayer 04

Meeting with Alonso: Visit from journalists from the USA and England

Media interest in Bayer 04 is huge including abroad not least because of the Werkself currently on top of the Bundesliga. A number of journalists from the USA and England came to Leverkusen for the Werkself home game against Union Berlin (4-0), the twelfth victory in succession. There was a roundtable discussion with head coach Xabi Alonso in addition to watching the league match at the BayArena.
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The journalists from CBS Sports, the New York Times, The Guardian, Associated Press and Transfermarkt as well as representatives of the German Football League (DFL) spoke to Spaniard about his start at Leverkusen and his close connection with the Bundesliga. In addition, Xabi Alonso shared insights into his football philosophy, his way of coaching and communication with the players. The 41-year-old also provided an honest assessment of the change of role from player to coach. There was also great enjoyment when the discussion covered a shared view of tactical matters.

Despite the successful start to the season and being in top spot in the Bundesliga, Xabi Alonso also stressed in the discussion that the previous weeks and months have been demanding and that he has learned a lot since he started as a coach at Bayer 04 in October 2022. The Spaniard was particularly grateful for the great support from the Bayer 04 club management, the shareholders committee led by Werner Wenning, the staff and the fans.

Round Table mit Xabi Alonso

Interviews and visit to var HQ

The itinerary for the journalists from the USA and England also included interviews with CEO Fernando Carro and sporting managing director Simon Rolfes plus a tour of the BayArena and a visit to the VAR HQ in Cologne.

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