Why Leverkusen is the Most In-form Team in Europe
LEVERKUSEN, Germany - Yes, you read the title right, Bayer Leverkusen is the most in-form team in Europe. As crazy as it sounds, Leverkusen have been on fire at the start of the Bundesliga season.
Here’s a glance into Leverkusen’s stats this season:
Have won six of their seven Bundesliga games (the one game they didn’t win was a draw against Bayern)
Have only conceded six goals, which is tied for second least in the Bundesliga
Are tied for most goals scored in the Bundesliga (23)
Are tied for the best goal differential in the Bundesliga (+17)
Have the best points per game ratio in the Bundesliga and Europe's top five leagues (2.71)
Granted, Leverkusen has only played seven Bundesliga games, but the results are promising. Most promising has to be their results against RB Leipzig (a 3-2 win) and Bayern (a 2-2 draw). Against Bayern, Leverkusen were able to remain in the game despite going 2-1 down and score a penalty in stoppage time to take home a point.
Manager Xabi Alonso has been getting the best out of his team and it shows. The defense is solid, the midfield is strong and the attack is clinical. Victor Boniface, Jonas Hofmann and Álex Grimaldo have been great signings. Florian Wirtz has been able to continue developing under a manager who has played the game at a high level. Overall, Xabi Alonso has proven that he is one of the best up-and-coming managers in the world right now.
Therefore, underestimate Leverkusen at your own risk because with Xabi Alonso at the helm, this Leverkusen side possesses a high ceiling, especially in the Bundesliga. The true test will be how Leverkusen performs in the remaining 27 Bundesliga games and what they are able to accomplish this season.