Xabi Alonso: “Last year’s elimination from Europa League by Roma motivated us to do better this year.” | OneFootball

Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso reiterated the disappointment that followed his side’s elimination from last year’s Europa League and how it contribute to this year’s run.

In his pre-match press conference ahead of the Europa League final with Atalanta, the Spanish technician reflected on his team’s journey in Europe.

“We certainly have great motivation, we have already talked about last year’s disappointment with Roma,” he said.

“We were very close to the final and we capitalized on that disappointment to fight even harder to achieve success. It motivated us to do better this year.”

“If you reach the final you go there to win, like every match it will be a story on its own and it will be time to make the most of the last effort of the season.”