Despite being considered a top target for Liverpool to succeed Jurgen Klopp, Xabi Alonso announced on Friday that he will remain as the coach of Bundesliga leaders Bayer Leverkusen for the upcoming season.
Addressing speculation about his future, Alonso stated during a press conference, “It’s been a season of speculation regarding my future. Up till now we have been busy and focused on the season and I wanted to reflect during the international break and take a decision.”
Alonso disclosed, “Last week I had a meeting when I informed Leverkusen’s directors of my decision to continue being coach of Bayer Leverkusen.”
Liverpool had previously confirmed in late January that Klopp would be stepping down at the end of the season, with the club’s ownership being notified of his decision to depart.
Alonso swiftly dismissed any talks of replacing Klopp at Liverpool.
The 42-year-old Spaniard has been guiding Leverkusen towards a potential treble, which includes their pursuit of their first-ever German league title.
Expressing his thoughts on his coaching journey, Alonso mentioned, “At the moment this is the right place for me to develop as a coach, I am a young coach. Right now this is the right place. I have to thank the management.”
Having been linked with moves to Liverpool, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, where he enjoyed successful playing careers, Alonso is content with the progress at Leverkusen.
Leverkusen’s impressive unbeaten run this season places them 10 points ahead of Bayern Munich in the race for the German title, with eight games left.
Alonso, a decorated former player with national team success, is steering Leverkusen towards a historic season with multiple targets still within reach.
Transitioning from coaching Real Sociedad B to being appointed Leverkusen’s coach in 2022, Alonso has proven his coaching abilities and natural talent.
Throughout his illustrious playing career, Alonso secured numerous titles under distinguished managers like Pep Guardiola, Carlo Ancelotti, Rafa Benitez, and Vicente del Bosque.
Meanwhile, Ballon d’Or winner Lothar Matthaeus recently commented that a move to Liverpool this summer would not be the optimal choice for highly sought-after coach Xabi Alonso from Bayer Leverkusen.
AFP