‘Bayer Leverkusen are probably our strongest rival’ – Serge Gnabry | OneFootball

Eight points separate leaders Bayern Munich and maiden champions Bayer Leverkusen heading into the 22nd matchday, and Serge Gnabry firmly believes that Xabi Alonso’s side are the Rekordmeister’s main title challengers.

Speaking to Bundesliga.com, Gnabry discussed what makes the Bayern-Leverkusen game special, more so since Alonso’s arrival and the fact that Bayern haven’t beaten Leverkusen since 2022.

“For sure that they are a good team,” said Gnabry. “Or that they have become a very good team in the last couple of years. Obviously the season that they had last year, which was very impressive. So, a lot of credit. They’ve become a strong team. It’s probably our strongest rival at the moment, and it’s going to be a decisive game that we’re going to have. And we’re looking forward to it.”

Speaking on Bayern’s inability to beat Leverkusen in recent years and the Werkself’s strengths, the 29-year-old added: “I didn’t even know we hadn’t won against them since 2022. I think it’s a mentality thing. They’ve grown strong. Obviously they have a lot of confidence now after last season – deservedly so.

“Obviously also some great players. Flo Wirtz is playing unbelievable. They look like they have a strong bond in the team and they always want to win as well, which they did last season. I think it gives them a lot of confidence to grow. That’s what makes them so strong.”

Gnabry has scored four and created two in 14 Bundesliga games for Bayern under Vincent Kompany this season, but has missed four league games with a knee injury, and was also absent from their recent win against Werder Bremen.

GGFN | Daniel Pinder