Bayern takes a bow:

“Your soccer has inspired the Bundesliga”

(Bild: APA/AFP/INA FASSBENDER/ALEXANDRA BEIER)

After eleven titles in a row, FC Bayern had to admit defeat to Bayer Leverkusen this year. Despite the mega streak being broken, the Munich club were fair losers and the club bosses took their hats off to the performance of the "Werkself" and coach Xabi Alonso.

"Congratulations to Bayer Leverkusen on the historic first German championship in the club's history. The title is absolutely deserved for Leverkusen: it is the reward for an outstanding season and great soccer," explained President Herbert Hainer on FC Bayern's website.

As a player, Xabi Alonso (l.) was champion with Bayern, as a coach with Leverkusen. Max Eberl (right) must also take his hat off.(Bild: APA/AFP/INA FASSBENDER/ALEXANDRA BEIER)

"Courage, class and consistency"
Words that CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen can only endorse: "They have played a flawless season so far, the team has shown courage, class and, above all, consistency and therefore deserved to become German champions in 2024. I would also like to send my personal congratulations to my colleague Fernando Carro and our former player Xabi Alonso." Director of Sport Max Eberl also congratulated Leverkusen on an "outstanding season. It's clear that we at FC Bayern want to be among the first to congratulate them. Congratulations in particular to Xabi Alonso, his coaching team and the entire squad. Your soccer has inspired the Bundesliga."

Now, however, it's time to pick themselves up and come back even stronger. "We will take this as a direct incentive, work even harder and not rest until the trophy comes back to Säbener Straße in Munich," Dreesen assures us.