Xabi Alonso implements genius tactic at Bayer Leverkusen that has helped them top the Bundesliga

Bayer Leverkusen are currently flying high at the top of the Bundesliga after 12 games and a genius tactic has helped contribute to their success.

Leverkusen have never won the Bundesliga in their history but find themselves two points clear of dominant champions Bayern Munich under Xabi Alonso.

The former Liverpool, Real Madrid and Bayern man took the reins in October 2022 and led Leverkusen to the Europa League semi-finals last term.

He signed a contract extension until 2026 but has already been linked with a slew of his former employers.

Leverkusen are playing an excellent brand of football and Alonso and his team clearly play attention to the smallest of details.

As a viral video on TikTok shows, Leverkusen have 29 balls around the pitch at BayArena whenever they play home games.

The "500 IQ" play means that there is always another ball ready for a player, limiting time-wasting and ensuring a swift restart through a quick throw-in.

This was seen during behind-closed-door football when ballboys were not present but it's a permanent feature for Leverkusen.

Technically the same applies to the opposition but you'd have to say it's working for Leverkusen, who are still undefeated in the league.

Fans loved the move from Alonso, whose side are the definition of "playing quickly".

One said: "Xabi Alonso ball = Leverkusen playing quickly, even when the ball goes out. Just counted up 29 balls lined up round the perimeter of the pitch. Some of them below. That seems…a lot!?"

A second commented: "Xabi Alonso is a tactical genius."

A third added: "Xabi Alonso cooking."

Another simply wrote: "This is beautiful".

A fifth user stated: "This should be made a permanent rule by FIFA."

Leverkusen beat Werder Bremen 3-0 away from home in their last outing and they are back in action on Thursday with a Europa League fixture against Hacken.

They then take on Borussia Dortmund in a massive game on Sunday.

Featured Image Credit: Bundesliga

Topics: Liverpool, Xabi Alonso, Real Madrid, Bayer Leverkusen, Bayern Munich, Bundesliga, Fan Reactions

Josh Lawless

Josh is a sports journalist who specialises in football and wrestling. He has been published by Curzon Ashton FC, Late Tackle, Manchester City FC, The Mirror, Read Man City and Manchester Evening News. He provides coverage of professional wrestling and has interviewed some of the biggest names in the field - including the first UK interview with The Hardy Boyz after their return to WWE. He has never sported a pair of Lonsdale Slip-ons, contrary to reports.

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