Xabi Alonso has downplayed Bayer Leverkusen's chances of winning the Bundesliga title this season, suggesting that Bayern Munich are the favorites to come out on top.
Bayer Leverkusen stunned the football world last season, as they went the entire campaign unbeaten and ended Bayern Munich's decade-long streak at the top of the Bundesliga. Xabi Alonso's side will look to retain their Bundesliga crown this season, and will kick-off their campaign with a trip to Borussia Mönchengladbach on Friday.
"For me, FC Bayern is the favorite" - Xabi Alonso on the Bundesliga title race
But the Bayer Leverkusen head coach sees his former club as the favorites to win the Bundesliga title this season. For Alonso, the goal is to ensure that his side finishes in the top four.
"From my point of view, we are not the favorites. For me, FC Bayern is the favorite again. The squad, their history, it's clear to see. We want to play well, we want to start the season well, that's our goal. We'll see what we can achieve but our goal is to stay in the top four. That's realistic, we have a good squad."
Bayern Munich will begin their Bundesliga season on Sunday with a trip to VfL Wolfsburg, and will be determined to return to the top of the league after experiencing their first trophyless season since 2012.
It has been a summer of big change at Bayern Munich, with the arrival of new head coach Vincent Kompany, as well as the signings of Hiroki Ito, Michael Olise, and João Palhinha.
With the likes of VfB Stuttgart, Borussia Dortmund, and RB Leipzig also in the mix, this season's battle for the Bundesliga title promises to be a very intriguing one.