Xabi Alonso is reportedly open to remaining at Bayer Leverkusen instead of joining Liverpool ahead of the 2024/25 season.
According to a report by TEAMtalk, Xabi Alonso is Liverpool’s preferred target to replace Jurgen Klopp ahead of the 2024/25 season. But the highly-rated manager is open to remaining at Bayer Leverkusen for another campaign due to the challenge of taking over from the German tactician at Anfield.
The Rise of Xabi Alonso, the Manager
Xabi Alonso has become one of the most highly-rated managers in the world in the last 12 months. The 42-year-old honed his coaching skills at Real Madrid before taking charge of Real Sociedad’s reserve team. But he has come leaps and bounds since joining Bayer Leverkusen midway through the 2022/23 season.
Die Werkself showed promising signs under his tutelage last season, but they have been exceptional this term. They are yet to lose a game thus far in the 2023/24 campaign, zooming to the top of the Bundesliga table while progressing in the cup competitions without much hiccups.
So, it is hardly surprising that Alonso’s stock has skyrocketed this season, making him the most highly sought-after manager in the world. He has emerged as a target for several high-profile clubs, including Bayern Munich. But widespread reports have heavily linked the Spaniard with another of his former clubs, Liverpool.
Liverpool Keen
Liverpool’s interest in Xabi Alonso comes in the wake of Jurgen Klopp’s announcement that he would leave the Merseyside club when the 2023/24 season ends. The German tactician will leave a gaping hole at Anfield, thus leaving Liverpool scouring the market for a world-class manager.
Alonso has thus emerged as a viable target for the Merseyside club. But the 42-year-old is ready to snub Liverpool to remain at Bayer Leverkusen for at least one more campaign. The Spanish tactician realises how challenging it will be to replace Klopp, considering his lack of experience.
But the Reds are keeping their options open as they are stepping up their efforts to secure the services of Ruben Amorim. While Liverpool’s primary target remains Alonso, they will turn to other candidates if a move for the 42-year-old Spaniard does not see the light of day.
