Xabi Alonso backed to succeed Jurgen Klopp as Liverpool manager
Former Liverpool midfielder Jason McAteer has weighed in on the ongoing discussion about who could potentially succeed Jurgen Klopp as the manager of the Reds. While many have touted Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard as the logical choice, McAteer suggests that former Liverpool star Xabi Alonso may be leading the race to take over the helm.
Alonso, who has been making a name for himself as a manager, is currently in charge of Bayer Leverkusen and has been garnering attention for his impressive work at the club. McAteer believes that timing and circumstances play a significant role in managerial appointments, and right now, the stars surely seem to be aligning in favour of Alonso. Here is what he told BoyleSports via ECHO:
“A lot of life is timing, being in the right place at the right time. People say to me ‘Oh Steven Gerrard next Liverpool manager’. Not necessarily – if the stars don’t align with his managerial career and Jurgen Klopp wants to leave, it’s not going to happen. If you’re asking me right now Xabi Alonso is ahead of Steven because of just the way things are happening and the time.”
The Spaniard’s men currently lead the Bundesliga charts with three wins from three games, maintaining a healthy goal difference of eight. Even after losing their star player Moussa Diaby to Aston Villa, Leverkusen certainly seem to be in high spirits. New signing Victor Boniface is in top form for Die Werkself. Speaking of Alonso, his contract at the side expires in 2026 (Transfermarkt), the same time Jurgen Klopp’s contract ends at the Reds.
While Steven Gerrard’s name has often been mentioned in discussions about Klopp’s potential successor, McAteer suggests that it may not be as straightforward as it seems. He points out that if Klopp decides to leave and the timing isn’t right for Gerrard’s managerial career, it may not happen. Moreover, Gerrard’s latest stint in the Premier League, as manager of Aston Villa was far from ideal for the Reds to imagine him as a potential heir to Klopp’s position.
Who after Klopp?
The comments from McAteer highlight the uncertainty surrounding managerial transitions in football. While Gerrard remains a beloved figure at Liverpool and a potential future manager, the dynamic nature of football means that other candidates like Alonso can emerge as strong contenders based on their performance and timing.
Ultimately, the decision on Klopp’s successor will depend on a variety of factors, including the club’s goals, the performance of potential candidates, and the timing of Klopp’s departure. Having said that, the hope is to see Jurgen manage the Reds for as long as possible, and also, overstay his contract, which no Red would mind in the slightest bit.
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While the question of who will eventually succeed Jurgen Klopp remains uncertain, it is clear that Liverpool has a pool of talented former players who are making their mark in the managerial arena.
