Former Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has cautioned against the hype surrounding Xabi Alonso as rumors circulate about a potential return to Anfield as Jurgen Klopp’s successor. Alonso, who has enjoyed success at Bayer Leverkusen since taking charge in 2022, is considered the top target for Liverpool as they prepare for Klopp’s departure. However, Benitez warns that social media coverage of his early managerial successes may create unrealistic expectations for the former player.
Benitez, who signed Alonso during his time at Liverpool, praises the Spaniard for his ability to quickly digest tactical information. Despite initial doubts about his physicality and pace, Alonso proved his critics wrong with his clever analysis and quick learning ability. Benitez believes that Alonso’s brilliance was evident in his performance during a goalless draw against Juventus in his debut season, which helped propel Liverpool to European glory.
Alonso’s success at Leverkusen has caught the attention of Klopp himself, who recently praised him as “the standout” among a new generation of managers. Leverkusen’s playing style under Alonso has been described as “absolutely exceptional.”
While Alonso’s achievements are commendable, Benitez urges caution in placing too much pressure on him too soon. With social media driving a fast-paced environment, Benitez argues that people often fail to see the bigger picture. He draws a comparison to Steven Gerrard, suggesting that if Gerrard were producing similar managerial success, the hype would be equally overwhelming.
In conclusion, Xabi Alonso’s potential return to Liverpool as Jurgen Klopp’s successor has generated significant excitement. However, former Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez warns against excessive hype and urges a more measured approach. Benitez highlights Alonso’s tactical astuteness and quick learning ability as key factors in his success. While Klopp himself praises Alonso as a standout manager, caution should be exercised in expecting too much too soon.