Xabi Alonso is being touted as one of the top contenders to replace Jurgen Klopp as the next Liverpool manager. With Klopp set to step aside at the end of the season, it will undoubtedly be a strange sight to see a new face in the dugout come August. However, Alonso’s credentials and progress with Bayer Leverkusen make him an obvious choice for the job.
Bundesliga commentator Dan O’Hagan recently gave us detailed insight into Alonso’s time as Leverkusen manager and what he could bring to Liverpool. O’Hagan spoke highly of Alonso’s brand of football, describing it as extraordinary and exciting. He believes that Alonso’s style of play, which is emotional, high-tempo, and full of goals, would work anywhere.
Although Klopp leaves behind enormous shoes to fill, O’Hagan suggests that Alonso might just be the character and style of coach capable of filling those shoes. He has shown great progress with Leverkusen, taking them from the bottom two to the European places last season. This season, Leverkusen has cemented their position as the best team in Germany, with an unbeaten record across all major leagues and competitions.
Alonso’s approach to setting up his team is fluid and adaptable. He doesn’t believe in strict formations and instead focuses on controlling the game’s tempo through possession. O’Hagan explains that systems under Alonso don’t mean much because his team dictates the game anyway. Leverkusen’s style of play is laissez-faire, with no set structure but intelligent players who can adapt.
While Alonso’s progress has been impressive, O’Hagan does raise some concerns about his experience. It’s only his second season in charge of a senior first team in a top division. Before that, he spent time with Real Sociedad’s B team and the under-14s at Real Madrid. O’Hagan suggests that Alonso may need one or two more years at Leverkusen to win trophies and gain more experience.
In terms of his man-management skills, Alonso’s achievements as a player command respect from big players at big clubs. The players will be well aware of his career and achievements, and O’Hagan believes that they would adapt to him and take to him from day one. Alonso gives his players a lot of autonomy and responsibility on the field, and it is evident that Leverkusen players enjoy playing under him.
In conclusion, Xabi Alonso has emerged as a strong candidate for the Liverpool manager position. His progress with Bayer Leverkusen and his exciting brand of football make him an obvious choice. While concerns about his experience exist, his achievements as a player and his man-management skills make him a compelling candidate. Overall, Alonso could bring a new wave of emotion and excitement to Liverpool football.