Xabi Alonso says “the feeling is incredible” after Bayer Leverkusen won their first Bundesliga title with five games to spare thanks to a 5-0 victory over Werder Bremen.
Bayern Munich beat Cologne on Saturday to keep Leverkusen’s title celebrations on hold for at least a day.
But there were scenes of jubilation for Alonso’s team when the final whistle blew at BayArena on Sunday.
“We have to enjoy and celebrate today with our families, friends and fans,” said Alonso, who was showered with beer after the victory in a German tradition. “This was my first [full] season as a coach, the feeling is incredible.”
Victor Boniface’s 25th-minute penalty set Leverkusen on their way before Granit Xhaka and Florian Wirtz scored stunning goals in quick succession.
Supporters stormed on to the pitch in mid-match when star man Wirtz added a fourth in the 82nd minute, and again when he completed a hat-trick soon afterwards.
Leverkusen’s landmark achievement ends an era of dominance for Bayern, who had won the past 11 Bundesliga titles.
Unbeaten in all competitions this season, Leverkusen remain on course for a remarkable treble in Alonso’s first full season in charge, with the German Cup and Europa League still in their sights.