Leverkusen Faces Tough Atalanta Challenge In Europa League Final

Bayer Leverkusen will face a challenging task against Atalanta in the Europa League final, according to manager Xabi Alonso. The Italian team has already eliminated Premier League giants Liverpool and three-time finalists Marseille in earlier rounds. However, Leverkusen have their own ambitions, aiming for a treble of titles after recently securing the Bundesliga championship.

Currently on an impressive 50-match unbeaten run this season, Leverkusen will play Gian Piero Gasperini's side, who are fifth in Serie A, in Dublin on May 22. "Atalanta is one of the best teams in Europe. The coach has a clear plan, they have a great mentality and a big squad," Alonso told reporters on Wednesday. "If we do our best, we have a chance, but it will be tight. They are a top team."

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With the league title secured, Leverkusen are now concentrating on winning both their upcoming finals. This includes the German Cup clash against Kaiserslautern on May 25. Before that, they have a home game against Augsburg in the league on Saturday. "The feeling is very good; we're looking forward to playing two finals. It's a great opportunity for us. We have time to prepare," Alonso stated.

"There's still the Bundesliga game, but of course we're already focusing on the two finals," the Spaniard added. "With the Bundesliga decided, we can focus more on the Europa League than if there was still something at stake. But the Bundesliga is not over yet, and we respect Augsburg."

Midfielder Florian Wirtz, who has scored 18 goals for Leverkusen in all competitions this season, is recovering after missing the last two games due to injury. "We'll take it slowly and look day by day. There's no risk of a more serious injury; it's all about the pain. We'll see how it looks again tomorrow," Alonso mentioned.

Leverkusen's upcoming fixtures are crucial as they aim to cap off an already successful season with additional silverware. The team's preparation and focus will be key as they navigate these important matches.