Quote from: imamusma on Today at 07:35:52 PM

Looking at the points Leverkusen collected last season, actually, they experienced a significant drop in performance, a 21 point difference from the previous season when they won the trophy. Fortunately, they were still able to finish as runners-up and even spent a few weeks in a tight race with Bayern Munich at the top of the table.

Yep. We can't deny that Leverkusen is declining their performance last season. Xabi applied slightly monotonous tactics, so it's easy for other teams to anticipate Leverkusen game. Also, the big teams in Bundesliga could improve their performance. So, it became harder for Leverkusen to maintain their good performance as in the season 2023-2024.

I wasn't surprised that Leverkusen still could finish in 2nd place. Only Bayern Munich actually became a serious competitor for the title. The surprising one was Dortmund, they almost finished out of the UCL zone.

Quote from: imamusma on Today at 07:35:52 PM

We realize that many people are currently doubting Leverkusen chances of winning a trophy next season. The departure of Xabi Alonso, followed by several key players, is the main reason, and that reason sounds very logical. Essentially, I share the same thought. However, it feels unfair to judge Ten Hag too early based on his poor reputation with Manchester United.

It is quite reasonable if people doubt Leverkusen to be the candidate of the champion in the next season. Bayern Munich looks stronger, meanwhile Leverkusen was declining their performance. Bayern Munich has many star players and there is no big change in their squad. But Leverkusen lost some very crucial players (Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Jonathan Tah). Even if Ten Hag is a top coach, he can't optimize the chance of winning the title with the current squad. I think people don't underestimate Ten Hag, people just try to think realistically.