Bayer Leverkusen stormed to their first ever Bundesliga title with five games to spare after thrashing Werder Bremen.
Bayern Munich, who had won the past 11 Bundesliga titles, beat Cologne on Saturday to delay Leverkusen’s title celebrations.
But an emphatic 5-0 victory over Bremen at BayArena on Sunday saw Xabi Alonso’s side clinch their maiden Bundesliga title in fine style.
Leverkusen, who are now chasing a treble with the German Cup and Europa League still in their sights, were in the relegation zone when Alonso took charge less than 18 months ago.
Alonso’s team are unbeaten in all competitions this season and sit 16 points ahead of Thomas Tuchel and Harry Kane’s Bayern Munich.
‘This is a very special moment for the club,’ an ecstatic Alonso said. ‘After 120 years, to win the Bundesliga for the first time is something extraordinary.
‘The players really performed, they were a top team together. I am so proud of all of them. For me, it’s on honour to work here.
‘Finally, we can say Bayer Leverkusen is a German champion. It’s a huge honour for all of us. It was totally earned by the team, by the club, by the fans.
‘Everyone, all departments, were working and fighting for this title so we are a result of that hard work over many years.
‘This is a moment to enjoy and a huge success for this club. The first title is always special for everyone. So to be part of this history feels incredible.’
Xhaka ended his seven-year spell with Arsenal to join Bayer Leverkusen last season and says winning the Bundesliga in his first season back in Germany is ‘unbelievable’.
‘It’s difficult to find the right words [to sum up his emotions],’ the ex-Gunners captain said. ‘To come back after my first season in the league is unbelievable.
‘We had a great season, a great game, not first half but second half we did well, and now we enjoy.
‘When you kick a ball at a young age, you dream of moments like this. It was hard work day by day, with everyone who was included in this club.
‘In my 14 years football career, it’s special for me, but even more special for this club. Now we want more, and to take the others one as well.’
Bayer Leverkusen now turn their attentions to the second leg of their Europa League quarter-final against West Ham. They travel to east London on Thursday night with a 2-0 advantage from the first leg.
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