You can remember how Bayer played before Alonso came and what places Bayer occupied in the Bundesliga then in the season 22/23 it was sixth place, in the season 21/22 it was third place and in the season 20/21 again sixth place. The last time Bayer were champions before Alonso was in 2010\2011. So Alonsa has injected new life into the team and Bayer is now considered one of the strongest teams not only in Germany, but also in Europe.
Today's game with Bochum and if Bayer wins, they will be only 3 points behind Bayern Munich.
Although this season Leverkusen could not defend its title, it does not make Xabi Alonso considered bad, he will still be an important coach for the future of the club. I mean the influence given by Alonso is the initial key to rekindle the fighting spirit of the players. Furthermore if Alonso leaves the club, the candidate to replace him must be able to continue the legacy. It will not be easy but at least I am sure Leverkusen will still be a club that continues to compete at the top in the title challenger. There are still 8 matches left to fight for, therefore no matter how small the chance is Leverkusen must really fight. After they lost in UCL the heavy burden began to ease and they can focus more on sweeping the 8 matches.