In the wake of the surprising announcement regarding Jurgen Klopp’s impending departure from Liverpool at the conclusion of the current season, Xabi Alonso emerges as a leading contender, according to early predictions by bookmakers, to step into the shoes of the 56-year-old manager.
Alonso, revered by Liverpool fans for his illustrious five-year tenure as a player at Anfield from 2004 to 2009, currently holds the reins at Bayer Leverkusen in Germany. The club, positioned at the summit of the Bundesliga with a four-point lead, has also secured passage to the Europa League knockout stages by virtue of winning all six group stage matches.
Speaking to the media on the eve of his team’s upcoming fixture against ‘Gladbach, Alonso addressed inquiries about the possibility of succeeding Klopp. “At the moment, I find genuine fulfillment in my role here, relishing the daily challenges as we embark on an enriching journey in Leverkusen,” he remarked, as cited by the Express. “To be candid, I am fully engrossed in the present moment and not contemplating the next phase of my career.”
When pressed directly on whether he would categorically dismiss the prospect of joining Liverpool in the summer, Alonso offered a measured response, stating, “That’s quite a direct question! I don’t possess a straightforward answer. Presently, I derive contentment from my current situation and am solely focused on Leverkusen.”
Alonso’s commendable managerial performance in Germany has fueled speculation about a potential release clause embedded in his Leverkusen contract, permitting his departure from the club as early as this summer should Liverpool, Bayern Munich, or Real Madrid express interest.
Initially, many anticipated Steven Gerrard to succeed Klopp, especially following his managerial debut with Glasgow Rangers in 2018, where he experienced considerable triumph. However, subsequent struggles at Aston Villa have led him to his current role as the head coach of Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Ettifaq.