On Saturday evening, Bayer Leverkusen is set to visit Bavaria to face Bayern Munich in a match that could be pivotal in the Bundesliga title race. Despite their remarkable achievement last season – becoming the first team to win the Meisterschale without a loss – Leverkusen has already experienced a setback this season, suffering a 3-2 defeat at home against RB Leipzig.
Bayern Munich, on the other hand, is relishing a flawless start under new head coach Vincent Kompany. They currently lead the league in both offensive and defensive statistics, showcasing their strength on the pitch. However, they have yet to encounter a serious challenge this season. A successful performance against Leverkusen could bolster their claims to reclaim their dominance in German football.
Xhaka outlines Leverkusen’s approach and aspirations
In an interview with Sky Germany, Granit Xhaka emphasized that Leverkusen is ready for the challenge at the Allianz Arena, despite the expectations that come with facing the record champions. “This is a Champions League opponent,” Xhaka remarked, acknowledging Bayern’s potential and the fresh strategies introduced by Kompany. He noted that Leverkusen has conducted a thorough analysis of Bayern’s games and recognized their potent offense and solid defense.
Xhaka also addressed the notion of pressure, explaining that while it may feel different, the team is well-equipped to handle it. He stated that the experience within the squad, including younger players, positions them to cope with the intensity of such a significant match. “A game in Munich against Bayern is always special, and we are looking forward to it,” he added.
As for their objectives this season, Xhaka highlighted the team’s desire to remain competitive for as long as possible. While they have specific internal goals, he noted that their external ambitions might differ. Emphasizing a focus on taking one game at a time, he explained that the upcoming match against Bayern is the next step in their campaign, indicating a determination to disrupt Bayern’s momentum, similar to their performance last season. It’s evident that Leverkusen is aiming to refine their game as they approach this high-stakes encounter, needing to address any weaknesses to avoid giving Bayern opportunities.
