Alonso ahead of #B04FCB: 'Different ways of approaching a top match'

"It's a special home game and we’re hoping for great support from our fans. We are expecting a top match against one of the best teams in Europe," said Xabi Alonso at the pre-match press conference on Friday afternoon. "There are different ways of approaching a top match. We definitely can't afford to take any unnecessary risks and we have to remain flexible."

The Spaniard primarily sees the strength of the opponents in their high individual and collective quality. "Bayern are always very dominant. We are prepared for a very testing encounter defensively and we will need an almost perfect performance," said Alonso. The fact that the team from Munich have an eight-point lead over Bayer 04 at the top of the table is no reason for concern for the Werkself coach: "Last year we had the lead, this year it's the other way round. We remain in a good position in all competitions."

Alonso on FCB: "VERY dominant AS USUAL"

FC Bayern are currently in good form having won the last seven league games in succession and they are having their best Bundesliga season in nine years. Bayern Munich beat Celtic 2-1 away on Wednesday in the first leg of the play-offs in the Champions League. The fact the Werkself did not have a game in midweek, in contrast to FCB, does not provide any advantage according to Alonso: "We are actually more used to double fixture weeks than normal. So it doesn't make any great difference. But, of course, we are happy to be able to prepare for this game in peace and quiet."

In response to a question from an English journalist on his time at Leverkusen, Alonso said: "When I came here I was quickly able to establish a good connection to the players. That was important and I'm very grateful for that as it made my start here easier. Bayer 04 are my first real chance to prove myself as a coach in professional football. I have learned a lot from this club, the environment and the many special nights of football that give you the energy to carry on."

Hermoso sidlined - Xhaka "a role model for others"

In addition to the two long-term injuries Jeanuel Belocian and Martin Terrier, Alonso will also have to manage without Mario Hermoso (stomach bug) for tomorrow's game. Otherwise all the players are fit as Alonso confirmed: "We are obviously very happy about that even if it doesn't make it any easier for me to make my decisions." (he laughs)

The press conference also dealt with other players: Talking about Granit Xhaka, Alonso said: "His role in the team is very important. He always produces good performances, is intelligent and has a great mentality. He's a role model for others."

Live on Sky and on Werkself Radio

The BayArena is sold out with 3,000 away fans from Munich expected to travel. The Bundesliga top match on Matchday 22 will be broadcast live on Sky. In addition, Werkself Radio will broadcast live from the BayArena 30 minutes before kick-off as usual.