Bayern Munich Fired Up To Prove They're No Outsiders Against Leverkusen

Bayern Munich have voiced their frustration over being labelled outsiders in their upcoming Champions League last-16 tie against Bayer Leverkusen, despite their rich history and resources. The Bavarians, who host Xabi Alonsos Leverkusen on Wednesday, have long been dominant in German football, yet pundits and bookmakers have made Leverkusen the favourites for the tie, particularly with the final being hosted in Munich this year.

Bayern's remarkable history in European football sees them rarely cast as underdogs, and the current generation, led by coach Vincent Kompany, has consistently been a strong contender in the Champions League. Yet, Leverkusen, with Alonso at the helm, has built a solid track record against Bayern, including eliminating them from the German Cup in December and going unbeaten in their last six encounters.

Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, a key figure in Bayerns rise to prominence, expressed his teams dissatisfaction with being written off, stressing that the players are motivated to prove the critics wrong. Bayern captain Manuel Neuers injury, sustained in their Cup defeat, highlights the competitive edge Leverkusen bring to the table, but Bayerns veteran players, such as Thomas Mueller, remain determined to silence their doubters.

Although Bayern have struggled on the road in Europe this season, including defeats to Barcelona, Aston Villa, and Feyenoord, their resolve at home and their pedigree in Europe cannot be dismissed. Michael Ballack, a former player for both clubs, reiterated that Bayern should never be considered outsiders, regardless of their current form.