Xabi Alonso, Bayer Leverkusen's coach, has the chance to solidify his reputation as a rising star in the coaching world in Wednesday's Europa League final. However, he will face a formidable opponent in Atalanta's experienced Gian Piero Gasperini.

Alonso has turned down offers from former clubs Liverpool and Bayern Munich, opting to stay with Leverkusen after leading them to their first-ever Bundesliga title with an unbeaten season. The German champions have maintained an impressive streak, going 51 games without a loss across all competitions, and they have the opportunity to complete a treble with two finals this week. While they are favorites to win against second-tier Kaiserslautern in the German Cup final on Saturday, their match against Atalanta in Dublin presents a more challenging task.

Atalanta, a club from Bergamo, have traditionally been overshadowed by AC Milan and Inter Milan. However, under Gasperini, they are experiencing a golden age and will participate in the Champions League next season for the fourth time in five years. Despite their success, Atalanta have not won a trophy in 61 years and have lost three Coppa Italia finals in the last six seasons, including a recent defeat to Juventus.

Reaching the Europa League final is a significant achievement for Gasperini. "Is it the highest point of my career? Yes, in terms of accomplishment and prestige, absolutely," he told UEFA.com. Despite missing out on trophies, Gasperini believes in the importance of exceeding goals and remains satisfied with Atalanta's progress. "If we also manage to add a cup, of course, we'll be even more satisfied."

Since taking over eight years ago, Gasperini has transformed Atalanta, shifting their goals from merely surviving in Serie A to consistently competing in continental football. The team has had notable victories over Liverpool and Marseille on their way to the final in Dublin.

Alonso admires Gasperini's attacking style and ability to develop young talent. "He has a clear plan and built up a team with strong mentality and high quality," Alonso said. "They are a top team. We'll have a chance if we produce our best form." Despite this, it is Atalanta who must pull off an extraordinary performance to stop Leverkusen's momentum.

Unlike Gasperini's modest playing career, Alonso boasts a World Cup and multiple Champions League victories. His extensive experience in European finals could prove invaluable. Reflecting on the season, Alonso remarked, "It would be historic," referring to the possibility of an unbeaten season across all competitions. "It would be something written in golden letters, not only in the history of our club but probably all European football. I hope we can."

As both teams prepare for the final, the match promises to be a thrilling clash between a coach looking to cap off a historic season and another aiming to crown a period of unprecedented success.