Tactical Surprise: Xabi Alonso Selects Exequiel Palacios Over Robert Andrich for Europa League Final

Exequiel Palacios, an Argentine midfielder, was selected by Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso over Robert Andrich for the Europa League final versus Atalanta in an unexpected tactical decision. There are questions about this choice because Andrich, a new member of the German national team, was crucial to Leverkusen’s run to the championship.

Although Andrich is more involved in the competition, Alonso has chosen Palacios, the winner of the 2022 World Cup, suggesting a possible shift in strategy for this important game. Leverkusen is hoping to win a European trophy and extend their incredible unbeaten streak to 52 games after winning the Bundesliga.

Both teams will start their chosen goalkeepers from the Europa League—Juan Musso for Atalanta and Matěj Kovář for Leverkusen—as opposed to their normal lineups from the domestic league. Both Alonso and Gian Piero Gasperini, the coaches, have selected their preferred 3-4-3 formations, which could provide for an entertaining tactical match on the field.

The official host team, Atalanta, will be dressed in their recognizable blue and black striped jerseys, while Leverkusen will be dressed in their light grey alternate uniform. While Leverkusen has a long history in European competitions, having won the UEFA Cup in 1988 and advanced to the Champions League final in 2002, Atalanta is making its first-ever participation in a European final.

A fascinating match between two ambitious teams with different styles and backgrounds is poised to take place. This Europa League final is likely to be an exciting show for football fans all around the world because of Alonso’s surprising lineup decision and Atalanta’s desire for their first European championship.