Alonso ahead of #B04WOB: 'Expect physical opponents'

"We don't have much time to prepare for Wolfsburg but that's nothing new for us," highlighted Alonso on Friday. "Today the focus is on regeneration and then tomorrow it's match preparation. We have to make the best use of the time we have."

The Spaniard described VfL's style of play as "intensive and physical, as is normally the way with Ralph Hasenhüttl teams". Alonso is therefore glad that all the players have come away from the Champions League opener against Feyenoord without any injuries. "We expect everyone to be available," confirmed the 42-year-old. "We have a deep squad, everyone's ready. We'll see who lines up on Sunday."

Alonso on Wirtz: 'already very mature'

Talking about two-goal Florian Wirtz and his performance in Rotterdam, Alonso said: "Flo is already very mature for his age. This big attention is nothing new for him. Obviously he put in a very good performance, but so did the whole team. Feyenoord isn't in our heads anymore, though. Only Wolfsburg matters now."

The Bayer 04 boss was also asked about Victor Boniface and gave his assessment of the Nigerian: "We see a development with Boni from week to week. He's very important for us and has a big influence on our play. His influence off the pitch is also positive, he brings fun to the dressing room and is a good character. We have to help him to play well."

Exequiel Palacios made his return from injury in Rotterdam. On the World Cup winner, Alonso commented: "Pala still needs a bit of time to be able to go for 90 minutes, but he's very important for us and we see that time and again."

home sections sold out

The home areas of the BayArena are sold out for Sunday's match, with 800 supporters expected from Wolfsburg.