Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso admits Roma ‘evolved’ under Daniele De Rossi and warns his team that a goal can ‘quickly change the scenario’ in a Europa League semifinal second leg on Thursday.
Xabi Alonso’s Bayer Leverkusen host Roma tomorrow in the second leg of the Europa League semis. The fresh Bundesliga champions secured a 1-0 win in Rome last week.
“We’ve made important improvements, but I am not too focused on this. I am much more focused on tomorrow’s game. Last year’s games helped us gain experience, so we are cautious and focused, ” the Spanish tactician told Sky Sport Italia.
Xabi Alonso admits Roma ‘evolved’ under De Rossi
“We can’t lower our guard and we should not only defend, but also attack. We must know what to do and try to hurt them. Roma are a complete team. They have evolved under De Rossi, and if they are in the Europa League semifinal, it is because they have great players. We know them well.
“Last week, was a good lesson for us ahead of what awaits us tomorrow.”
Alonso previewed tomorrow’s fixture at a pre-match press conference as well, warning his players.
Xabi Alonso warns Bayer Leverkusen about Roma
“The second match is always more dangerous. A goal can quickly change the scenario, so we must be focused from the start,” he said, as quoted by VoceGiallorossa.
“We have not forgotten the pain from last season so we must use this energy to celebrate with the fans at the end of the game.”
José Mourinho’s Roma eliminated Bayer from the Europa League semifinals last season but went on to lose the final on penalties against Sevilla.
Since replacing Mourinho this past January, De Rossi has won 13 games from 22, drawn five, and lost four. His contract expires in June, but Roma owners announced last month that they’d extend it with the former Italian midfielder, who is set to remain in charge in 2024-25.