Xabi Alonso, currently associated with Bayer Leverkusen, has conveyed his admiration for Jurgen Klopp and Liverpool following Klopp’s announcement of departure. Although frequently regarded as a front-runner for the managerial position at Liverpool, Alonso stressed his current contentment with Bayer Leverkusen.
Leading the Bundesliga and maintaining an unbeaten record in all competitions, Alonso underscored his dedication to the ongoing journey with Leverkusen, dispelling speculations about returning to Liverpool. While acknowledging Klopp’s significant contributions, Alonso committed to his present role, leaving the possibility of managing Liverpool open but uncertain for the upcoming season.
Despite the managerial vacancy at Liverpool, Alonso remains steadfast in his focus on guiding Bayer Leverkusen through challenges and sustaining their successful run in the Bundesliga.
In a prior 2018 interview with Guillem Balague on talkSPORT, Alonso had expressed his aspiration to manage Liverpool, anticipating that Steven Gerrard, then a youth coach, would likely assume the role first. Alonso recognized the necessity to prove himself and prepare for a managerial role, underlining his profound connection, dedication, and passion for Liverpool. Despite his dreams, he acknowledged Gerrard’s path and foresaw Gerrard’s managerial journey commencing earlier due to Gerrard’s established presence at Liverpool.
Following his playing career, Gerrard transitioned to coaching in Liverpool’s youth setup, eventually taking on his first senior managerial role with Rangers in 2018. Achieving success with Rangers by winning their first Scottish title in nearly a decade, Gerrard’s subsequent move to the Premier League with Aston Villa in 2021 concluded with his dismissal after a year. Gerrard has now assumed a new role with Al Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia.
In contrast, Alonso’s managerial career has been prosperous, starting with coaching Real Madrid’s youth teams and Real Sociedad’s B side before joining Bayer Leverkusen in 2022, where he has enjoyed significant achievements.
