Modern football exists as much on spreadsheets on laptops as it does in stadiums such is the incredible proliferation of statistical analysis in recent years.
Clubs like Brentford and Brighton & Hove Albion have achieved incredible success, on and off the pitch, by using data to gain significant advantages on clubs with more resources but less knowledge. We’re looking at you Manchester United.
But this shift towards statistics can often lead to individual data points being used to form narratives which are much more nuanced than on first glance.
And a recent chart, detailing how Matheus Cunha “spent more time walking” than any other outfield player in the Premier League, is a perfect example of this misrepresentation.
Data Without Depth
Matheus Cunha is heading to Manchester United but Opta stats reveal he spent more time walking than any other Premier League player this season. 🤔🚶#MUFC#BBCFootballpic.twitter.com/qrW6D4UnJQ
Tweet: “Matheus Cunha is heading to Manchester United but Opta stats reveal he spent more time walking than any other Premier League player this season.”
Match of the Day revealed the Wolverhampton Wanderers forward spent 77.1% of his season “walking” – the highest in the league outside of goalkeepers, with four defenders making up the rest of the top five.
This chart blew up on social media given Cunha is set to join United this summer in a deal worth £62.5 million after an agreement was reached with the Brazilian international.
It was described as evidence the club were welcoming another lazy player with a lackadaisical attitude to Old Trafford for big money; an illustration the Red Devils were not heeding lessons from the past.
But the chart omits the fact that Cunha was one of only two players in the ‘bottom ten’ of the Premier League to reach the 20 mark for goals and assists, along with West Ham winger Jarrod Bowen.
The 26-year-old forward finished the season with 15 goals and six assists without scoring a single penalty. Only five players scored more non-penalty goals than Cunha – Mohammed Salah, Alexander Isak, Erling Haaland, Yoanne Wissa, and Chris Wood.
The chart ignores Cunha produced these numbers while playing for one of the worst teams in the division, a side who flirted with relegation for much of the campaign before Vitor Pereira’s arrival at Christmas.
But, being fair, neither Cunha’s attacking threat nor his place in a poor team (though this experience will prepare him well for a switch to Old Trafford) necessarily excuse a lazy attitude on the pitch. He can be an elite goal threat hindered by inferior teammates and still demonstrate a lethargy which could worry United fans.
The issue is that this chart offers zero insight into what Cunha does for the remaining 22.9% of his time on the pitch.
“If you want explosiveness…”
STATSports, an industry leading data analysis group in football, reveals Cunha ranks highly in comparison to his Wolves’ teammates for ‘explosive’ statistics, dispelling the idea of laziness.
Amongst the senior squad at Molineux, Cunha ranks third for “most sprint distance” and “most sprints”, while clocking in at second for “percentage of his time spent sprinting (per 90).”
The idea that the Brazilian spends the second most amount of time sprinting for his side while simultaneously spending the most amount of time walking out of any outfield Premier League player shows the issue with analysis statistics in isolation.
The former paints the picture of a relentless player who simply does not stop running; the latter suggests a story of laziness and arrogance, a player who considers himself ‘above’ running off the ball such is his talent on it.
As with every black and white story, the truth will lie somewhere in the grey.
Cunha is an explosive player in attack who can contribute much more in defence. This does not indicate an inherent issue with work-rate, rather the reality of a brilliant attacker playing for a team teetering on relegation. A player who believes he has outgrown his club will often struggle to find the motivation to run for every ball.
A good example of this situation was Youri Tielemans at Leicester City who eventually moved to Aston Villa on a free transfer, despite excellent performances at the heart of the Foxes’ midfield. Yet there were concerns over the Belgian’s work-rate, most notably from Leicester fans themselves, and other clubs neglected to follow up their interest.
But it has proven a revelatory signing for Villa with Tielemans arguably Unai Emery’s most important player in the last two season. The 28-year-old midfielder was spurred on by arriving at a bigger club with better players and higher expectations; rather, he felt he was at home.
It should prove a similar experience for Cunha who is believed to see Old Trafford as a dream move with a firm motivation to help turn the clubs fortunes around.
Ruben Amorim has repeatedly referenced the need for hard yards since arriving in Manchester n November. Working hard is a pre-requisite to play under the Portuguese coach, as Marcus Rashford can attest to from Birmingham.
But Amorim has played a key role in identifying Cunha as a target and spoken with the forward over the role he will play for the Red Devils. If the former Sporting manager was in any worried by Cunha’s tendency to walk, United would have walked away from the deal long ago.
STATSports concludes their analysis of the Wolves Player of the Season by stating, “If you want explosiveness, Cunha gives it to you.” Amorim will be hoping the Brazilian international has an explosive effect on United’s misfiring attack next season.
The 2025 UEFA Champions League Final is set to be a thrilling encounter between Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Inter Milan. Both teams have demonstrated exceptional form throughout the tournament, and their contrasting styles promise an exciting match. This article comprehensively analyses their performances, tactical approaches, and key statistics to offer a data-driven Champions League Final 2025 prediction.
A potent attack and a cohesive team have marked PSG’s journey to the final play. Under Luis Enrique’s guidance, the team has evolved into a dynamic unit, shedding its reliance on individual stars. They have scored 25 goals in the tournament, averaging 2.09 goals per match, with a possession rate of 60.34% and a passing accuracy of 89.5%. Their offensive prowess is further highlighted by 21 assists and 16 clear chances created.
Defensively, PSG has conceded 10 goals, averaging 0.84 goals against per match, and secured five clean sheets. Goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma has been instrumental, recording 29 saves and a save percentage of 77%, conceding only 0.75 goals per game. His resurgence has been pivotal in PSG’s progression to the final.
Inter Milan, on the other hand, has built its campaign on a formidable defence. They have conceded just two goals in the tournament, averaging 0.2 goals against per match, and boast eight clean sheets. Their goalkeeper has made 31 saves, contributing to their defensive solidity. Offensively, Inter has scored 15 goals, averaging 1.5 goals per match, with a possession rate of 51.2% and a passing accuracy of 88.3%.
Lautaro Martínez has been a standout performer for Inter, scoring a hat-trick against Monaco and reaching 150 goals for the club. The team’s tactical discipline is evident in their 364 balls recovered and 55 tackles won.
In terms of tactical approaches, PSG’s high-possession game and fluid attacking movements contrast with Inter’s structured defence and counter-attacking strategy. PSG’s ability to control the midfield and create scoring opportunities will test Inter’s defensive resilience. Conversely, Inter’s capacity to absorb pressure and exploit counter-attacks could challenge PSG’s defence.
Considering the statistical data and tactical nuances, the Champions League Final 2025 prediction leans slightly in favour of PSG. Their superior goal-scoring record, higher possession rate, and cohesive team dynamics suggest they have the edge. However, Inter’s exceptional defence and experience in managing high-stakes matches cannot be underestimated. The outcome will likely hinge on key moments and individual brilliance.
In conclusion, the UEFA Champions League Final between PSG and Inter Milan is poised to be a closely contested battle. While PSG’s attacking flair positions them as slight favourites, Inter’s defensive prowess ensures they remain formidable opponents. We can all anticipate a match rich in tactical intrigue and high-quality football.
For decades, Bayer Leverkusen had been synonymous with near-misses in German football. Often labeled the “eternal second,” the club had come close to Bundesliga glory multiple times but had never managed to lift the trophy. However, the 2023–24 season changed the club’s fortunes forever. With a combination of tactical brilliance, outstanding player performances, and unwavering determination, Leverkusen secured their first-ever Bundesliga title in a season that will be remembered for generations.
Bayer Leverkusen’s journey to the title was nothing short of extraordinary. With a squad blending experienced leaders and young rising stars, the team dominated the league from start to finish. Under the leadership of head coach Xabi Alonso, Leverkusen adopted an attacking style of play that overwhelmed opponents while maintaining defensive solidity. Their consistent performances against top teams ensured they remained at the top of the table throughout the season.
One of the biggest turning points in their campaign came in the second half of the season when they defeated title-contenders Bayern Munich in a crucial head-to-head matchup. This victory not only widened the gap at the top of the standings but also proved that Leverkusen had the mentality of champions. Unlike previous seasons where they faltered under pressure, this time they held their nerve, securing vital points in must-win games.
The question on everyone’s mind throughout the season was: who won the Bundesliga 2024? The answer, against all odds, was Bayer Leverkusen. Their dominance was reflected in their record-breaking performances—going on an unbeaten streak for the majority of the season and registering one of the highest point tallies in Bundesliga history. Their style of play was admired across Europe, and analysts pointed out how they outperformed their closest competitors not just in results, but also in tactical execution and squad depth.
Leverkusen’s triumph was more than just a sporting achievement; it was a testament to patience, long-term planning, and the perfect blend of talent and coaching. Their victory sent a message to the rest of the Bundesliga—Bayern Munich’s dominance was not unbreakable, and a new powerhouse had emerged in German football.
Key Matches That Defined the Championship Season
Bayer Leverkusen’s road to their first-ever Bundesliga title was marked by a series of crucial victories that solidified their dominance in the 2023–24 season. While consistency was the key to their success, several high-stakes matches played a pivotal role in securing their place at the top of the table. These encounters not only tested their resilience but also demonstrated their tactical superiority over their closest rivals.
Throughout the season, Leverkusen displayed an impressive ability to rise to the occasion, particularly against the league’s strongest teams. Their ability to adapt to different styles of play, coupled with the leadership of coach Xabi Alonso, ensured that they overcame difficult challenges with confidence. The following matches stand out as defining moments that shaped their journey to the Bundesliga title.
Bayer Leverkusen vs. Bayern Munich (2-1) – A high-intensity clash that saw Leverkusen prove they could go toe-to-toe with the perennial champions. A late goal secured the win and sent a message to the rest of the league.
Bayer Leverkusen vs. Borussia Dortmund (3-0) – A commanding victory against one of their biggest challengers. This match highlighted their defensive solidity and attacking efficiency.
Bayer Leverkusen vs. RB Leipzig (1-0) – A crucial away win that showcased their ability to grind out results under pressure.
Bayer Leverkusen vs. SC Freiburg (4-2) – An entertaining game where Leverkusen’s attacking firepower was on full display, further cementing their position at the top.
Bayer Leverkusen vs. Union Berlin (2-0) – A vital match towards the end of the season, proving their composure and ability to handle the pressure of a title race.
Each of these matches was significant in its own right, demonstrating different aspects of Leverkusen’s tactical versatility. Against Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund, they displayed resilience and counter-attacking prowess, while the match against Leipzig highlighted their defensive discipline. The game against Freiburg showed their attacking creativity, and their win over Union Berlin underlined their ability to maintain focus when it mattered most.
Bayer Leverkusen’s ability to secure results in crucial games proved that they were deserving champions. Their combination of tactical adaptability, squad depth, and mental strength ensured that they remained dominant throughout the campaign. These defining moments will be remembered as the turning points that led to their historic Bundesliga triumph.
Tactical Mastery Under Xabi Alonso
Bayer Leverkusen’s Bundesliga triumph in the 2023–24 season was not just a result of individual brilliance but a testament to the tactical revolution brought by head coach Xabi Alonso. In just a short span, Alonso transformed the team’s playing style, turning them into one of the most formidable sides in German football. His philosophy combined structured defensive discipline with fluid, attacking football, making Leverkusen a well-balanced team capable of both controlling possession and striking with lethal counterattacks.
A key aspect of Leverkusen’s success was their adaptability. Alonso implemented a tactical system that allowed the team to switch between formations seamlessly, depending on the opposition. Throughout the season, Leverkusen frequently transitioned between a 3-4-3 for defensive solidity and a 4-2-3-1 for attacking dominance. This flexibility made it difficult for opponents to predict their approach and break them down.
Pressing and Ball Retention as the Foundation
One of the most striking features of Leverkusen’s tactical setup was their high-intensity pressing. The team excelled at winning the ball back quickly after losing possession, suffocating opponents and forcing errors in dangerous areas. This strategy was particularly effective against possession-based teams, as Leverkusen’s structured pressing disrupted their build-up play and allowed them to capitalize on mistakes.
Additionally, Alonso emphasized ball retention, ensuring that his team maintained control of the game by dominating possession. His midfield, led by Granit Xhaka, acted as the engine that dictated the tempo, recycling possession efficiently and launching attacks with precision. By striking the perfect balance between aggressive pressing and calculated buildup, Leverkusen asserted dominance over their opponents.
Their ability to execute Alonso’s tactical vision consistently was a key reason why they emerged as champions. The answer to – who won the Bundesliga 2024, was not just about talent—it was about a perfectly executed game plan that redefined the team’s identity.
Statistical Breakdown of the Championship Season
Bayer Leverkusen’s title-winning 2023–24 Bundesliga campaign was not just about the big moments and tactical brilliance—it was also backed by an impressive set of statistics that highlighted their dominance throughout the season. From their attacking prowess to defensive resilience, the numbers behind their success tell the story of a team that was built to win.
Throughout the season, Leverkusen showcased consistency in both home and away fixtures, maintaining an unbeaten run for a significant portion of the league. Their ability to convert chances, maintain defensive stability, and dictate possession played a crucial role in their title-winning run. Compared to previous seasons, they showed marked improvement in various key metrics, making their triumph even more remarkable.
One of the standout factors of their success was their goal-scoring efficiency. The team not only created numerous goal-scoring opportunities but also had one of the highest shot conversion rates in the league. Additionally, their defensive record was among the best, proving that their strategy was effective on both ends of the pitch. Below is a breakdown of some of the most important statistics from their championship-winning campaign.
Statistic
Value
Total Matches Played
34
Wins
27
Draws
5
Losses
2
Total Goals Scored
85
Goals Conceded
25
Clean Sheets
18
Average Possession (%)
62
Pass Completion Rate (%)
88
These numbers highlight the well-rounded nature of Leverkusen’s squad. Their high win percentage and low number of losses underline their dominance, while their defensive solidity ensured that they remained difficult to break down. Additionally, their ability to control possession and maintain a high pass completion rate made them one of the most efficient teams in the league.
Beyond the numbers, what made Leverkusen’s season truly special was their ability to turn these statistics into consistent performances. The combination of offensive firepower and defensive discipline made them one of the most balanced teams in Bundesliga history. Their remarkable goal difference, coupled with an impressive number of clean sheets, shows how they excelled in both scoring and shutting out opponents.
The data from this historic season will serve as a benchmark for future teams hoping to replicate their success. It stands as proof that winning the Bundesliga requires not only talent and strategy but also statistical superiority across key areas of the game.
Player Contributions and Standout Performances
Bayer Leverkusen’s success in the 2023–24 Bundesliga season was a collective effort, but several key players emerged as driving forces behind their historic triumph. The squad was a perfect blend of experienced leaders and young talents who consistently delivered outstanding performances throughout the campaign. Their individual brilliance, combined with tactical discipline, played a crucial role in shaping the team’s dominant run.
Key Players Who Made the Difference
One of the standout performers of the season was Florian Wirtz. The young attacking midfielder was at the heart of Leverkusen’s creative play, orchestrating attacks and providing crucial assists. His ability to unlock defenses with precise passes and intelligent movement made him one of the most feared playmakers in the league.
In the forward line, Victor Boniface proved to be a lethal striker, finishing the season among the Bundesliga’s top goal scorers. His clinical finishing and physical presence in the box gave Leverkusen a cutting edge in attack. His ability to convert chances in high-pressure situations ensured that the team never struggled for goals.
On the defensive end, Granit Xhaka’s experience and leadership were invaluable. Playing as a deep-lying midfielder, he provided stability, dictated the tempo of games, and acted as the link between defense and attack. His tactical awareness and composure under pressure made him one of the most consistent performers throughout the season..
The collective performances of these players ensured that when fans asked, who won the Bundesliga 2024, the answer was Bayer Leverkusen. Their individual brilliance, combined with team cohesion, set the foundation for an unforgettable season that will be remembered in club history.
Fan and Community Impact
Bayer Leverkusen’s historic Bundesliga triumph in 2024 was not just a victory for the club but also for its passionate supporters. The fans had waited decades to see their team lift the league title, and their unwavering support played a crucial role in pushing the players to their best performances. From record-breaking attendance figures to city-wide celebrations, the impact of this victory extended far beyond the pitch.
Leverkusen’s success reinvigorated the football culture in the city, with local businesses, schools, and even casual supporters embracing the team’s incredible achievement. The sense of unity and pride among the fans was evident in every match, as the BayArena witnessed electric atmospheres that inspired the players. The relationship between the club and its supporters strengthened, with players often acknowledging the role the fans played in their journey.
Record Attendance at Home Matches – The BayArena saw some of the highest attendance figures in the club’s history, with supporters creating an intense atmosphere at every game.
Unwavering Away Support – Fans traveled in large numbers to away games, ensuring the team always had backing, even in difficult matches.
Social Media and Online Engagement – Leverkusen fans dominated social media, spreading positivity and increasing the club’s global presence.
City-Wide Celebrations – After securing the title, thousands of fans flooded the streets in celebration, turning Leverkusen into a sea of red and black.
Involvement in Community Events – The club and its supporters engaged in various charity events, reinforcing the bond between the team and the local community.
The outpouring of support throughout the season not only motivated the players but also showcased how football has the power to bring people together. The championship celebrations reflected the deep emotional connection between the club and its loyal supporters.
Looking ahead, Bayer Leverkusen’s Bundesliga triumph is expected to leave a lasting legacy. More young fans will be inspired to take up football, and the club’s growing reputation could lead to increased investment in youth development and stadium expansions. The 2024 season will forever be remembered as a defining moment in Leverkusen’s history, not only for the players and coaches but for the entire fanbase that stood by the team through every challenge.
Bayer Leverkusen’s Bundesliga Triumph and Its Lasting Legacy
Bayer Leverkusen’s 2024 Bundesliga victory was more than just a single-season achievement; it marked a turning point in the club’s history. For years, Leverkusen had been known as the team that came close but never quite reached the top. This season, however, they shattered that perception, proving themselves as legitimate champions capable of competing with the very best in German football.
The significance of this title extends far beyond the trophy itself. It has redefined expectations for the club, setting a new standard for success. No longer will Bayer Leverkusen be seen as underdogs or nearly men; instead, they have established themselves as a serious force in European football. This newfound status is likely to attract top-tier players, increase sponsorship deals, and elevate the club’s profile on a global scale.
Another major impact of this championship is the effect it will have on the next generation of footballers. Young players at the club’s academy now have role models to look up to—players who proved that dedication, tactical discipline, and teamwork can lead to greatness. The club’s youth development system is expected to benefit immensely, as more talented youngsters will aspire to be part of a team that has already proven it can reach the pinnacle of German football.
Ultimately, when people ask in the future, who won the Bundesliga 2024, the answer will always be Bayer Leverkusen. But this victory is not just about one moment—it is about the foundation it has laid for continued success. The club’s challenge now is to build on this momentum, sustain their level of performance, and ensure that this title is the first of many in their bright future.
