Is Alonso to Liverpool a Done Deal? Exploring the High Demand for the Talented Player
Xabi Alonso, the former Liverpool player and current Bayer Leverkusen manager, has emerged as a top contender to replace Jurgen Klopp as the next Liverpool manager. With Klopp’s surprising decision to leave the club at the end of the season, Liverpool is in search of a new leader, and Alonso’s success at Leverkusen has caught their attention. However, Liverpool is not the only club interested in acquiring Alonso’s managerial talents. Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, and even Manchester City are closely monitoring the situation. Despite bookmakers offering low odds that suggest a done deal, the decision ultimately lies with Alonso himself.
Alonso, who recently turned 42, still has two and a half years remaining on his contract with Bayer Leverkusen. The club has always supported Alonso’s desire to join one of Europe’s elite clubs and has stated that they would not stand in his way. However, there is no buy-out clause in his contract, leaving the decision solely in Alonso’s hands. His long-term plan has always been to potentially join clubs like Real Madrid or Liverpool if things went well, or return to his hometown club, Real Sociedad, if circumstances changed.
Alonso’s journey as a manager began while he was still an active player. He left Real Madrid in 2014 to join Bayern Munich, where he played his last three seasons before retiring. This decision surprised many but allowed him to learn from top coaches like Pep Guardiola and become fluent in German. Alonso’s dedication and focus have characterized his career both as a player and a coach.
As a coach, Alonso is known for being hands-on and interventionist rather than simply a manager. He has learned from influential figures like Guardiola, Jose Mourinho, Carlo Ancelotti, and Rafael Benitez. His coaching style emphasizes possession and dominating through control of the game. At Leverkusen, he implemented a back three formation with two players in front to strengthen their defense. With a stronger midfield, Leverkusen has improved both individually and collectively under Alonso’s guidance.
Alonso’s relationship with his players is reminiscent of Ancelotti’s approach. He is friendly, courteous, and cordial, while still maintaining authority and control. His defensive strategies likely stem from his time with Mourinho. Players like Granit Xhaka and Alex Grimaldo speak highly of Alonso, impressed not only by his impressive resume but also by the fact that he has made them better as individuals and as a team. They appreciate his structured approach and clear expectations.
While Alonso remains a top candidate for the Liverpool managerial position, there are several factors to consider. Bayern Munich’s current coach, Thomas Tuchel, is facing challenges, but the Bundesliga season is still ongoing. Real Madrid recently extended Ancelotti’s contract until 2026, and Guardiola is committed to Manchester City until the end of next season. As for Liverpool, Klopp has publicly stated that his assistant, Pep Lijnders, would make a good replacement. However, with the news of Klopp’s departure followed by other coaching staff and the sporting director leaving, it appears there will be a complete overhaul at Anfield this summer.
Despite all the speculation and rumors, Alonso remains focused on his current responsibilities at Bayer Leverkusen. He and the club have unfinished business this season, and Alonso will decide when the time is right to make a move. The demand for his managerial talents is undeniable, but the ultimate decision rests with him alone. Whether Alonso ends up at Liverpool or another top club remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—he will not be swayed by the noise surrounding his future.