How Alonsos Neverkusen are challenging Kanes Bayern

The Bundesliga conversation has been dominated this season by Harry Kane and his record-breaking scoring exploits - yet Bayern Munich are not even top of the league.

That honour at the final international break of 2023 goes to Bayer Leverkusen, who have been even more dominant than perennial champions Bayern.

Leverkusen have won 16 of their 17 matches this season in all competitions, including their past 12 in succession. The only game they failed to win was a 2-2 league draw at Bayern in September.

In the league, they have 31 points from 11 games, two ahead of second-placed Bayern. It equals the record for the best Bundesliga start, by Pep Guardiola's Bayern in 2015-16.

They are also impressing in the Europa League, through to the last 16 with two matches to spare after winning their opening four group games.

Under the increasingly impressive management of former Liverpool, Real Madrid and Bayern midfielder Xabi Alonso, Leverkusen look unstoppable - and in with a real chance of, at long last, getting their hands on the Bundesliga trophy for the first time in their 119-year history.

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