Xabi Alonso has declared his commitment to staying at Bayer Leverkusen for at least another season, despite strong interest from both Liverpool and Bayern Munich.
The Spanish coach has garnered significant acclaim for his accomplishments at Leverkusen, where the team currently holds a commanding 10-point lead at the summit of the Bundesliga, positioning them well to clinch their first league title.
The Reds have closely observed Alonso’s managerial prowess and, as reported by Newsnow Liverpool, identified him as their primary candidate to succeed Jurgen Klopp.
Meanwhile, Bayern Munich have also been actively pursuing the services of the former midfielder, aiming to secure his tenure at the Allianz Stadium, especially with Thomas Tuchel poised to depart the European powerhouse at the conclusion of the season.
“My job at Bayer is not over,” Alonso announced on Friday.
“I want to help the club, help the players to develop, the board is great… it’s all fantastic here. I’m still [a] young coach but I think this is the best decision for my future. I took my time and I’m sure about that.
“I’m grateful to Bayer and the board, the players, the fans. I feel that this is the best way, to continue together. I have also informed the players, it’s true.
“My deadline was this week, it’s [a] matter of respect. Now everything is clear. I’m not gonna comment about Liverpool or Bayern. These are big clubs and I’ve strong links with them but I’m in the place where I want to be.”
What Has Paul Merson Said About Xabi Alonso’s Liverpool Decision?
Paul Merson reacted to Alonso’s choice on Sky Sports News, his hopes that the manager doesn’t regret his “shock” decision to turn down Liverpool and Bayern Munich.
“If I’m being honest yes, I’m surprised. I think you’ve got to make hay while the sun shines in management, and you’re talking about two of the biggest jobs in world football with Bayern Munich and Liverpool,” Merson said.
“This chance may never come again. I don’t see Bayer Leverkusen winning the Bundesliga next season, I expect Bayern Munich the juggernaut to carry on as they have the last 10, 11, 12 years.
“I’m shocked, really shocked. I can understand that he’s probably happy with what he’s doing. He’s getting great accolades and rightly so.
“But these opportunities come along once in a blue moon and I just hope he doesn’t regret this decision. That’s my opinion.
“I know what managers are like, but everyone gets the sack in the end. He’s turning down two of the biggest jobs in the world.”:
In other Liverpool news, Fabrizio Romano Claims Liverpool Have Held “Internal Discussion” One Manager After Alonso Blow