Including Attackers
Xabi Alonso has made it clear that under his leadership, defending starts from the front. The Bayer Leverkusen boss — known for his tactical precision and team cohesion — insists that attackers must be fully involved in defensive duties, reinforcing his philosophy that defense is a collective responsibility.
Alonso believes that pressing high, recovering the ball early, and maintaining compactness across all lines of the pitch can only happen if every player commits, regardless of their primary role. That includes wingers, strikers, and attacking midfielders, who are expected to track back, press intelligently, and contribute to the team’s overall shape out of possession.
This approach was key to Leverkusen’s record-breaking 2023/24 season, where they remained unbeaten domestically and showcased some of the most disciplined team performances in Europe. For Alonso, it’s not just about individual brilliance, but about every player understanding and executing their defensive duties as part of a unified system.
As he continues to build his coaching legacy, expect this demanding but effective philosophy to remain central — wherever he coaches.
