Xabi Alonso stresses the importance of Bayer Leverkusens must-win match against Atletico Madrid to secure a top-eight finish in the Champions League.

Bayern Munich moved seven points clear of Bayer Leverkusen with a 3-2 win against Wolfsburg on Saturday afternoon, but Vincent Kompany’s side were made to work for their win.Leon Goretzka worked

Following Bayern Munich's victory over Wolfsburg earlier, Bayer Leverkusen returned to within four points of the Bundesliga leaders with an 11th straight win across all competitions

Defending champions Bayer Leverkusen know they will need to be close to perfect to hunt down leaders Bayern Munich as the Bundesliga returns ... Unbeaten league and cup winners last campaign, Xabi Alonso's side stumbled early in the season as they struggle ...

Florian Wirtzs two goals and assist lead Bayer Leverkusen to a 3-1 win over Borussia Monchengladbach, keeping pressure on Bayern Munich.

Florian Wirtz scored twice as Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen beat Borussia Moenchengladbach 3-1 on Saturday to stay four points behind leaders Bayern Munich.

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Atletico Madrid's Julian Alvarez scored twice, leading to a 2-1 comeback win against Leverkusen, securing a Champions League last-16 spot.

“Players like Xabi Alonso in midfield have the capacity to read the whole game,” Simeone said then. “Alonso’s return meant Madrid found the famous ‘balance’ their coach (then Carlo Ancelotti) was looking for. But the balance is Xabi Alonso, not the others.”

The Athletic report that no bid has gone in but Carter-Vickers is of interest to Xabi Alonso. The former Tottenham defender, though, is though to favour a return to the Premier League.