The prospects of Liverpool appointing Xabi Alonso as their new manager to succeed Jurgen Klopp remain uncertain despite his prominent position on Michael Edwards’ list of desired candidates. Recent reports also suggest Alonso has attracted interest from Manchester City.
Liverpool is intensifying efforts to identify a successor to Klopp as the German prepares to conclude his nearly nine-year tenure. During his tenure, Liverpool has secured seven major trophies and aims to add three more before the current season concludes.
Presently, Liverpool remains competitive in the Premier League title race following a 1-1 draw with Manchester City. Additionally, they face Manchester United in the FA Cup quarter-finals and are well-positioned to progress to the Europa League quarter-finals after defeating Sparta Prague 5-1.
With the return of former renowned sporting director Edwards in a directorial capacity, Liverpool’s search for a manager is expected to escalate. However, reports indicate that three other candidates are also under consideration if securing Alonso proves challenging.
Securing Alonso’s services from Bayer Leverkusen may pose difficulties. Alonso has established himself as a premier coach, guiding Bayer Leverkusen unbeaten in the Bundesliga, holding a ten-point lead over Bayern Munich and poised to secure their maiden league title in 120 years.
Competition for Alonso’s signature is fierce, with Bayern Munich also expressing interest, particularly as they seek a replacement for departing manager Thomas Tuchel.
Recent reports suggest Alonso harbors reservations about assuming the managerial role at Anfield and succeeding Klopp. Furthermore, he has been advised to await potentially more prestigious opportunities.
Manchester City has also emerged as suitors for Alonso. Reports indicate City made an initial approach for Alonso in December 2019 when Mikel Arteta departed to become Arsenal’s head coach. Guardiola, who had previously worked with Alonso at Bayern Munich, viewed him as a promising talent with the potential to reach the pinnacle of coaching.
However, Alonso declined the offer at that time, citing his recent appointment as Real Sociedad’s B team manager. Nevertheless, he eventually joined Bayer Leverkusen in October 2022.
Alonso’s success at Bayer Leverkusen underscores Guardiola’s foresight regarding his coaching abilities.
Next Liverpool manager: Alonso given Klopp warning
Alonso’s competencies have garnered praise from Klopp, who, as of February, provided a resounding endorsement, stating, “Xabi is performing admirably. The speculations surrounding him aside, my assessment of his capabilities remains independent. Eight weeks ago, if you had inquired about Xabi Alonso, my reaction would have been profound astonishment.”
He continued, “The veteran figures – Ancelotti, Mourinho, Guardiola, perhaps myself – are unlikely to persist for the next two decades. Mourinho might, perhaps. Nonetheless, the upcoming generation has already emerged, with Xabi standing out prominently in this cohort.”
Reflecting on Alonso’s background, Klopp remarked, “As a former world-class player hailing from a coaching lineage, which undoubtedly lends an advantage, Alonso exhibited coaching attributes during his playing days. His strategic acumen, team formations, and transfer decisions are nothing short of extraordinary. Having spent considerable time in the Bundesliga, I find his approach highly impressive, not only in terms of points accrued but also in the style of play.”
Despite the encouraging accolades and Alonso’s exposure to top-tier coaches, he has been cautioned against attempting to emulate Klopp’s methods at Anfield.
Former Liverpool star Patrik Berger, speaking to Betway, emphasized the importance of maintaining authenticity, regardless of the managerial position Alonso may assume next.
Berger asserted, “Irrespective of the appointee, assuming the role of the new manager will undoubtedly pose challenges. It is my firm belief that whoever takes the reins should refrain from mimicking Klopp’s style. Instead, they should focus on being true to themselves and executing their duties competently.”
Alonso ‘knows what it takes to become Liverpool manager’
Berger asserts that Xabi Alonso possesses the requisite qualifications to potentially excel as a prominent figure at Anfield, should he secure the managerial position. “Speculations suggest Xabi Alonso could emerge as a viable contender, a notion supported by his commendable tenure at Leverkusen. Furthermore, his prior association with Liverpool imbues him with an intimate understanding of the city’s ethos and the significance of representing Liverpool,” remarked Berger, now aged 50.
“Alonso’s illustrious career, coupled with his tutelage under esteemed mentors such as Ancelotti and Guardiola, positions him favorably for the role. His familiarity with the fan base could provide an immediate advantage. However, the landscape of prospective candidates remains unclear,” Berger added.
When queried about his endorsement of Alonso’s potential appointment, Berger concluded, “On the whole, I would not object to Alonso assuming the mantle of Liverpool’s new manager, given his exceptional stewardship at Leverkusen, where he appears poised to clinch the Bundesliga title this season.”
Alonso presently boasts a 65.73% win ratio at Leverkusen, having secured victory in 48 out of 74 matches under his stewardship, with only 10 losses, none of which have occurred thus far in the ongoing season.