4000 times "Happy Birthday": Bayer fans stir Alonso
When the 4,000 Bayer Leverkusen fans who had traveled to Bremen sang "Happy Birthday" for him, it was extraordinary even for Xabi Alonso, a footballing world man accustomed to success. "This is a great honor and a great joy," said the now 42-year-old coach of the Bundesliga leaders with emotion.
After the 3:0 (2:0) win at Werder Bremen on Saturday, he and the players went to the fans, who then began to sing. As a player, Alonso won everything you can win in soccer. But a moment like that on the cold evening in Bremen's Weser Stadium was something special for him too.
"Feeling the connection. That's very important to me," said Alonso. The fans always support the team. "And to feel this special moment now is very nice. I am grateful that we have built such a special connection with the fans, for now and for the future."
Alonso wanted to spend his birthday evening with his family after his return from Bremen. "I haven't seen her yet today," he said. "She's waiting for me at home. That's the best way to celebrate, with a win."
In the Bundesliga, Werder Bremen faced a challenging match against Bayer Leverkusen's team led by coach Xabi Alonso. Despite Alonso's successful soccer career with numerous wins, the 4,000 Bayer fans' emotional "Happy Birthday" serenade during their 3:0 victory left a lasting impression on him.
Source: www.dpa.com
