Frank Schmidt
HeidenheimXabi Alonso
Leverkusen
Meeting Highlights...XABI ALONSO
You just have to look at his CV, I’m a bit light compared to that. Facing him as a coach is something very, very special. He had incredible success as a player. There is a universe between my career and his.
...ABOUT MATCH
In the first match we equalised in the 60th minute, but unfortunately we were awarded 1-2 in return. Sometimes, as newcomers, we can give our best performance and it still may not be enough. But the big difference is that we play at home. And we have shown often enough during the season that we can sometimes trip up the favourites. We have prepared for various situations and want to make the impossible possible and take something with us.
...INJURY UPDATE
Apart from the long-term injured and Denis Thomalla, everyone was able to train. With Denis Thomalla, we assume that he will start training again next week, or the week after next at the latest.
Frank Schmidt
Manager on Heidenheim...XABI ALONSO
You just have to look at his CV, I’m a bit light compared to that. Facing him as a coach is something very, very special. He had incredible success as a player. There is a universe between my career and his.
...ABOUT MATCH
In the first match we equalised in the 60th minute, but unfortunately we were awarded 1-2 in return. Sometimes, as newcomers, we can give our best performance and it still may not be enough. But the big difference is that we play at home. And we have shown often enough during the season that we can sometimes trip up the favourites. We have prepared for various situations and want to make the impossible possible and take something with us.
...INJURY UPDATE
Apart from the long-term injured and Denis Thomalla, everyone was able to train. With Denis Thomalla, we assume that he will start training again next week, or the week after next at the latest.
Xabi Alonso
Manager on Leverkusen...HEIDENHEIM
One of the toughest away games of the season. It's always difficult to play there. They absolutely deserve their position in the table. They were top with set pieces, in counter-attacks and they have a brilliant team spirit. That all makes Heidenheim very dangerous. Frank Schmidt is a brilliant person and a great coach with a huge passion for football.
...KOSSOUNOU BACK – XHAKA READY
We are all very happy for Odi and we congratulated him on his return yesterday. He's come back in very good spirits and he had a brilliant tournament.
...PERIKO ALONSO'S AFFECT
Of course, football is always on the agenda in my house. We regularly talk about games and opponents. His opinion is the most important thing for me, he has a big influence on me and is my big role model. He always finds the right words and always remains calm.