Liverpool’s quest to find a successor for Jurgen Klopp at the end of the season has hit a significant setback, with Xabi Alonso emerging as the prime candidate.
Alonso, the former Liverpool player, is currently leading the race to take over from Klopp.
With Klopp’s imminent departure, Liverpool have been eyeing Alonso as their potential new manager. The 42-year-old, known for his illustrious stint at Anfield as a player, has garnered attention for his successful tenure at Bayer Leverkusen.
Alonso has been instrumental in Bayer Leverkusen’s impressive campaign this season, guiding the team to the summit of the Bundesliga.
Their recent 3-0 triumph over Thomas Tuchel‘s Bayern Munich has solidified their position atop the league table, boasting a five-point lead over the reigning champions.
Leverkusen have demonstrated an impressive performance this season, securing victory in 17 out of their 21 league matches while exhibiting sensational football skills.
Liverpool aren’t the only club interested in Alonso; Real Madrid and Chelsea have also shown interest in acquiring his services.
Bayern are increasingly likely to part ways with Tuchel in the upcoming summer and aim to preempt Liverpool in securing Alonso’s managerial expertise, as reported by The Times.
Alonso, who previously played for Bayern from 2014 to 2017, is the preferred choice for a permanent managerial position, although Hansi Flick is also linked with the role.
Alonso, a World Cup winner, faces a decision between his former clubs should he opt to depart Leverkusen at the end of the season.
Tuchel is under pressure following consecutive defeats to Leverkusen in the league and Lazio in the Champions League, adding to speculation about his future.
They suffered a 1-0 defeat in Rome on Wednesday as they face Champions League elimination.
Speaking after the game, Bayern sporting director Christoph Freund said: “Of course, Tuchel is struggling with the situation, which is very difficult for all of us. We are all in the same boat. It is not easy, but we will get out of this together. That is our goal.”
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