The stage is set for a thrilling Europa League final as Atalanta and Bayer Leverkusen lock horns at Dublin Arena on Wednesday, May 22nd. This is not their first encounter in the Europa League, though. Atlanta faced Leverkusen back in 2022 in the round of 16, where they won 4-2 on aggregate, winning both the home and away legs. This victory will undoubtedly provide them with a boost in confidence for the Italian club.
However, underestimating Xabi Alonso’s Leverkusen would be a mistake. They are still unbeaten this season. With the Bundesliga title already in the bag, Xabi Alonso’s men will be looking to win the Europa League final to achieve their first-ever European treble. This relentless pursuit of glory is a far cry from their 2001/02 campaign when they finished Bundesliga runners-up and fell short in both the German Cup and Champions League finals.
Leverkusen’s current unbeaten run stands at a staggering 51 games, with their second-leg draw against Roma in the semi-finals being a prime example of their late-game heroics and unwavering determination. This hunger, injected by manager Xabi Alonso, makes them a formidable opponent for any team, including a historically successful Atalanta.
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Bayer Leverkusen Team Preview
Bayer Leverkusen are a team on a mission. After years of falling short, they’ve transformed into an invincible force under manager Xabi Alonso. Their current unbeaten run stands at a staggering 51 games, a proof to their unwavering determination and invincible spirit. They are an effective and clinical attacking side. They have bagged 135 goals scored this season, with players like Moussa Diaby and Patrik Schick leading the charge.
At the heart of Leverkusen’s incredible season lies their most important player, Florian Wirtz, the Bundesliga Player of the Year. This young forward has been nothing short of phenomenal, contributing a staggering 11 goals and 11 assists in the league alone. He was instrumental in their league title charge and has led Leverkusen in the Europa League as well. His creativity, combined with his deadly finishing, makes him a nightmare for any defense.
Leverkusen has already made history by completing an unbeaten league run. However, they will look forward to extending this achievement by winning both the UEL and the DFB Pokal for a lower-tier but nevertheless incredible continental treble.
Predicted starting lineup: Matěj Kovář, Edmond Tapsoba, Jonathan Tah, Piero Hincapié, Jeremie Frimpong, Robert Andrich, Granit Xhaka, Álex Grimaldo, Jonas Hofmann, Florian Wirtz, Patrik Schick.
Atalanta Team Preview
Atalanta arrived in Dublin with a point to prove. Gian Piero Gasperini is an experienced coach who has proven his prowess by consistently reaching the Champions League and now their first Europa League final. Their attacking style, headed by the in-form forward duo of Charles De Ketelaere and Gianluca Scamacca, has propelled them to a top-five Serie A finish and a Champions League return. However, it is Teun Koopmeiners who has been leading the charts this season, bagging 12 goals and 6 assists all season.
While Atalanta doesn’t boast a single standout player with statistics like Wirtz, the danger lies in their collective attacking threat. It’s evident that Gasperini has instilled a dynamic and unpredictable attacking style in his team. This unpredictability, along with their experience in European competition, could prove to be Leverkusen’s Achilles heel.
Despite their domestic attacking prowess, Atalanta has taken a more cautious approach in Europe, conceding the fewest shots on target in the entire competition. This tactical shift highlights Gasperini’s adaptability and his desire to finally claim a major trophy after falling short in the Coppa Italia final to Juventus. A win against Leverkusen would not only be a historic moment for the club but also solidify Gasperini’s legacy as a true Atalanta legend.
Predicted starting lineup: Juan Musso, Berat Djimsiti, Isak Hien, Giorgio Scalvini; Davide Zappacosta, Teun Koopmeiners, Éderson, Mattero Ruggeri, Charles De Ketelaere, Gianluca Scamacca, Ademola Lookman.
Bayer Leverkusen Vs. Atalanta Head-to-Head stats
The two sides have faced each other only two times. They faced each other back in the 2021/22 Europa League round of 16. Atalanta emerged victorious on both occasions. They won their first encounter 3-2 at home and their second game was 1-0 away. While this historical record might favor Atalanta, it’s important to consider the significant changes both teams have undergone since then. Leverkusen, under Xabi Alonso’s leadership, is a much different beast, currently enjoying a 51-game unbeaten streak.
Bayer Leverkusen Vs Atalanta Betting Odds
Bayer Leverkusen 1.80 – Draw 3.70 – 4.20 Atalanta (bet365)
Betting Tips: Bayer Leverkusen Vs Atalanta
The Europa League final promises to be an offensive showcase as Leverkusen’s firepower clashes with Atalanta’s defensive organization. While both teams are in impressive form, Leverkusen seems to hold the edge.
Leverkusen’s 51-game unbeaten run speaks volumes about their mental strength and tactical adaptability. Their ability to snatch late victories throughout the season highlights their unwavering determination. This momentum, alongside their potent attack led by Florian Wirtz, makes them a formidable force. However, Atalanta shouldn’t be underestimated. Their experience in Europe and their ability to adapt their tactics, showcased by their switch to a more cautious approach in the Europa League, pose a significant threat. Their resolute defense, the best in the competition, will be key in containing Leverkusen’s offensive masterclass.
Considering Leverkusen’s incredible form and their never-say-die attitude, they enter the final as slight favourites. Their attacking prowess and recent success suggest they might just edge out Atalanta, but an easy win is anything but guaranteed. Expect a close encounter — potentially decided by a single goal or even penalties — but only after both sides have had a taste of the back of the net.
The Europa League final promises to be an exciting battle between two European powerhouses: Bayer Leverkusen and Atalanta. While Leverkusen are the favorites, Atalanta has everything to cause an upset. Everything points towards a massive UEFA Europa League Final!