Bayer Leverkusen has surged back to the pinnacle of the Bundesliga, emulating Pep Guardiola’s Bayern Munich’s historic start from the 2015-16 season, with a commanding 4-0 triumph over Union Berlin. Xabi Alonso’s impeccable run of form since taking the reins shows no signs of abating, as Leverkusen has now accrued a near-perfect 31 points from the available 33, matching the record set by the Bavarian giants.
The rout orchestrated by Alonso’s squad saw Alex Grimaldo, Odilon Kossounou, Jonathan Tah, and Nathan Tella all etch their names on the scoresheet, signalling a clear statement of intent to their rivals. The former Spain international, now at the helm, reflected on the team’s razor-sharp focus and discipline, while cautiously reminding everyone of the unpredictability inherent in football.
This remarkable resurgence under Alonso, who stepped in during a period of distress last October with Leverkusen languishing near the relegation zone, has not only lifted them to the summit but also rekindled memories of their Europa League semi-final run last season. The Spanish tactician’s impact has been nothing short of transformative, building on his managerial stint with Real Sociedad’s B team after hanging up his boots in 2017.
Meanwhile, England’s skipper Harry Kane’s scintillating form continued unabated for Bayern Munich, netting twice against Heidenheim to secure a 4-2 victory. Kane’s double took his goal tally to an astounding 17 for the season, breaking the previous record set by Robert Lewandowski in 2019 for the most goals after 11 games.
Despite Bayern’s dominance, Heidenheim staged a valiant second-half fightback, drawing level through Tim Kleindienst and Jan-Niklas Beste. However, Bayern’s depth proved decisive, with Raphael Guerreiro and Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting stepping off the bench to seal the win, maintaining Bayern’s slender lead at the top — a position Leverkusen would later usurp with their Sunday victory.
Leroy Sane’s creative genius was on full display, providing both assists for Kane’s goals. The synergy between Sane and Kane has been a revelation for Bayern, with the former Tottenham star already surpassing last season’s top scorers in the Bundesliga and matching Erling Haaland’s impressive haul in the Premier League at the same juncture.
While Bayern and Leverkusen trade blows at the top, Union Berlin’s struggles continue, anchored at the bottom of the table after a club-record ninth consecutive defeat. The contrast in fortunes couldn’t be starker as the Bundesliga narrative unfolds with Leverkusen now leading the charge, setting the stage for a thrilling title chase in one of Europe’s most competitive leagues.
