Following Bayer Leverkusen as a full-time journalist has been like a journey on a roller coaster. Since I started covering the Werkself for Bild in 2008, Bayer Leverkusen always had good teams and talented players. Traveling with Leverkusen through Europe became normal, and still it is. However, the big dream of becoming Meister or champions never came true until now.
When Xabi Alonso was appointed as the new manager, we had just come back from Porto. Leverkusen lost 0-2 in the Champions League and were facing a relegation battle. Alonso took over from Gerardo Seoane in 17th position and transformed the team dramatically while smashing the 'Neverkusen' tag in style.
April 14, 2024, marked the beginning of a new era in German football, after Bayern had won the previous 11 titles in a row. When Leverkusen smashed Werder Bremen 5-0, the whole city, dressed in black and red for weeks, went crazy. The old 'Neverkusen' label was gone, demonstrating that success is achievable.
It was fascinating to see how Leverkusen managed to win the first-ever unbeaten Bundesliga season. Late goals became their trademark, showcasing consistent resilience and determination throughout the entire season.
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