April promises a significant month in Liverpool’s pursuit of Xabi Alonso as their prospective new manager.
Since Jurgen Klopp’s surprising announcement of his departure from the club in January, Alonso has emerged as the frontrunner to assume the reins at Anfield for the upcoming season.
In the approximately two months since that time, however, there has been minimal activity. The Spaniard remains preoccupied with finishing an extraordinary season with Bayer Leverkusen, while Bayern Munich are also showing interest. As a result, Alonso has yet to make a definitive decision.
Despite this apparent standstill, journalist Fabrizio Romano suggests that significant developments are occurring behind closed doors.
During an appearance on the JD Football YouTube channel yesterday, Romano claimed that both Liverpool and Bayern are gearing up for what he described as a “crazy battle” set to unfold in April.
“I’m sure that Liverpool will fight until the end to get Xabi Alonso,” Romano says. “I see Liverpool and Bayern really fighting for the Spanish manager. It’s going to be an interesting one in the upcoming weeks and months.
“Trust me, Liverpool and Bayern will really try their best, also Bayern are already pushing for that. So, it’s going to be a crazy battle I think in April.”
Liverpool Set for Alonso Battle in April
Liverpool’s readiness to engage with Bayern regarding Alonso is encouraging. It seems likely that the 42-year-old would choose the Reds if given a direct choice.
However, any reluctance or hesitation from Liverpool could allow Bayern to gain an advantage. It’s imperative for Liverpool to prevent this scenario.
While there are reportedly other managers under consideration at Anfield, including Franck Haise from Lens, Alonso remains the favourite.
If the World Cup winner does opt for Bayern, it would be a significant setback for Liverpool as they navigate the early stages of the post-Klopp era.
Nevertheless, Liverpool must keep their options open and consider other talented managers. They cannot afford to wait indefinitely for Alonso to reach a decision.
As the end of the season rapidly approaches, April seems like an ideal cutoff point. Following Liverpool’s elimination from the FA Cup over the weekend, Klopp’s final match will occur either in the Premier League on May 19th or in the Europa League final three days thereafter.
Given Leverkusen’s simultaneous engagement on three fronts, Alonso’s desire for clarity is understandable. Nevertheless, the reality remains that two prominent clubs eagerly await his decision.
Liverpool must formulate a contingency plan. Nonetheless, as the closing stages draw near, their former No.14 remains their preferred choice.
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