Bayer Leverkusen can move a step closer to securing their first ever Bundesliga title with a win at Union Berlin on Saturday afternoon. 13 points ahead of Bayern Munich, Thomas Tuchel has already conceded defeat in the title race with seven games remaining, but we know the drama that the Bundesliga can provide.
Coming into this game after securing their place in the DFB Pokal final, Xabi Alonso could make up to three changes following their 4-0 win against Fortuna Düsseldorf in midweek.
Lukas Hradecky will replace cup goalkeeper Matěj Kovář, while Odilon Kossounou could replace Josip Stanišić in Bayer’s back three, alongside Jonathan Tah and Edmond Tapsoba.
Although Exequiel Palacios and Victor Boniface are fit again, Alonso did confirm that neither will start against Union, but both remain options from the bench. That means a midfield-pivot of Robert Andrich and Granit Xhaka, while Patrik Schick keeps his place in attack alongside Florian Wirtz, with Jonas Hofmann expected to replace Amine Adli.
Predicted Bayer Leverkusen XI vs Union Berlin
Lukas Hradecky – Odilon Kossounou, Jonathan Tah, Edmond Tapsoba – Jeremie Frimpong, Robert Andrich, Granit Xhaka, Alex Grimaldo – Jonas Hofmann, Florian Wirtz – Patrik Schick.
