Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has disclosed his preferred successor for Jurgen Klopp at Anfield once the current Reds boss departs at the conclusion of the season.
Writing for The Telegraph, Carragher suggests that fellow Anfield cult hero Xabi Alonso would be an excellent choice to assume the managerial responsibilities for Liverpool.
The football world was left in astonishment on Friday when Klopp made the announcement of his departure from Liverpool at the end of the season.
“I will leave the club at the end of the season,” Klopp said in a video shared by the Liverpool media team. “I understand that it’s a shock.”
The 56-year-old, whose Reds contract was due to run until the summer of 2026, attributed his decision to “running out of energy”.
Xabi Alonso “Was Born to Be a Liverpool Player”
Alonso, who has displayed his talents at Bundesliga club Bayer Leverkusen, is being considered as a potential successor at Liverpool.
Carragher expresses confidence in the 42-year-old, stating that he would be an excellent choice for the Anfield managerial position. Similar to Klopp, Alonso possesses a unique connection with the Kop.
“Klopp never had to learn how to connect with the Kop. It was like he was born to be the Liverpool manager,” wrote the former Reds defender.
“That’s one of the reasons why Xabi Alonso is already being considered the natural heir. From day one, it was like Xabi was born to be a Liverpool player.
“As he is my former teammate, it is no surprise that so many are clamouring for him to be appointed. I would love Xabi to get the chance.”
Xabi Alonso a Star as a Player and as a Coach
Alonso showcased his brilliance on the field for Liverpool, amassing 210 appearances, contributing 18 goals, and providing 20 assists throughout his playing career with the Reds.
His impact was pivotal in securing notable victories for Rafa Benitez’s team, including the Champions League triumph in 2005, as well as triumphs in the FA Cup and Community Shield with Liverpool.
Beyond his success at Liverpool, Alonso achieved global recognition by clinching the World Cup and two European championships with Spain.
He added another Champions League title with Rafa Benitez’s side to his resume and secured numerous league championships with both Los Blancos and Bayern Munich.
Transitioning to the managerial realm, Alonso has steered Leverkusen to the summit of the Bundesliga, maintaining a four-point lead over Bayern Munich. His leadership prowess was evident last year as he guided the team to the Europa League semi-finals.
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