Former Reds hero outlines his ‘focus’ as Liverpool eye Jurgen Klopp’s replacement

Xabi Alonso responds to rumours linking him to the Liverpool job after Jurgen Klopp announces impending exit

During a Bayer Leverkusen press conference, Xabi Alonso addressed the inevitable question about the possibility of becoming the next Liverpool manager in the wake of Jurgen Klopp’s announcement of his departure at the end of the season. Alonso, currently at the helm of Bayer Leverkusen, responded by acknowledging that speculation is normal in football but emphasized his current focus on his role with the German club.

Alonso expressed contentment with his position at Bayer Leverkusen and conveyed his happiness with the players under his charge. He acknowledged the surprise surrounding Klopp’s decision to leave Liverpool, highlighting his great respect and admiration for the outgoing manager’s achievements at the club.

Since taking over at Bayer Leverkusen, Xabi Alonso

has managed an impressive 2.13 points per game in 64 matches and has also maintained an unbeaten record across all competitions this season. The Spanish tactician has implemented a distinctive playing style, preferring a 3-4-2-1 formation with three centre-backs, two wing-backs, two defensive midfielders, two attacking midfielders, and a striker. This contrasts with Klopp‘s preferred 4-3-3 formation, featuring a holding midfielder and two central midfielders.

Who next?

While Alonso’s response neither confirmed nor denied the speculation surrounding a potential return to Liverpool, it reflected a coach content with his current responsibilities and focused on the tasks at hand with Bayer Leverkusen. Here is what he had to say via ECHO:

“Speculation is normal, my focus is here on Bayer Leverkusen”.

“I am very happy at Leverkusen with my players at the moment. Big surprise in Liverpool, of course — for what Jurgen did in Liverpool I have great respect and admiration.”

Replacing a figure of Klopp’s stature is a monumental task. He not only brought success but also instilled a sense of belief and a distinct style of play that resonated with the Liverpool faithful. Klopp’s contributions extend beyond the trophy-laden period; he rekindled the spirit of the club, creating a sense of unity and purpose that goes beyond Anfield.

As Liverpool navigate the process of identifying Klopp’s successor, Alonso’s name naturally surfaces given his connection to the club as a former player and his emerging coaching career. However, for the time being, Alonso remains committed to his role at Bayer Leverkusen, steering the team through its campaigns and maintaining an impressive record in German football.

For Xabi Alonso, potentially coming back to Liverpool means taking on a big role after Klopp. The memories of Klopp’s “heavy metal football”, the famous European nights, and the happy celebrations are still fresh in Liverpool’s recent past. Alonso has been working as a manager at Bayer Leverkusen, where he’s been putting his own football ideas into action. He focuses on a unique style of play and creating a positive atmosphere in the team. Now, potentially returning to Liverpool, he would be following in the footsteps of a great manager and contributing to the club’s rich history.

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The managerial landscape is ever-evolving, and Liverpool’s search for a new leader will undoubtedly attract attention and speculation until an official announcement is made. But until the end of the season, let us enjoy each and every second that Jurgen Klopp occupies the Manager’s Office at La Axa.