Key Concern for Liverpool: Does Alonso Meet All the Requirements?
Liverpool fans were left shocked and disappointed when Jurgen Klopp announced his departure as manager at the end of the season. Now, the Reds are on the hunt for a new boss to take over the reins and continue the club’s success. One name that has emerged as a potential candidate is former Liverpool midfielder and current Bayer Leverkusen head coach, Xabi Alonso.
Alonso, who had a successful playing career at Anfield, making 210 appearances and scoring 19 goals, has been making waves in the Bundesliga. Under his guidance, Bayer Leverkusen has gone from the bottom of the table to the top, currently sitting undefeated and five points clear of second-place Bayern Munich. Their recent 3-0 victory over Bayern Munich in a top-of-the-table clash showcased Alonso’s tactical prowess and ability to get results.
However, there is one concern over Alonso’s potential appointment, according to former Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy. Murphy believes that ideally, Liverpool would want a manager with a bigger body of work, someone who has had success in various places and has the potential to replicate what Klopp has achieved. He acknowledges that while Alonso’s current achievements at Bayer Leverkusen are impressive, it may not be enough to meet all the requirements Liverpool is looking for in their next manager.
Murphy goes on to explain that finding a candidate who ticks all the boxes is challenging, if not impossible. Managing Liverpool is a unique challenge, and following in the footsteps of a successful manager like Klopp is no easy task. Murphy believes that while Alonso may not check all the boxes, he still appears to be a strong candidate for the job. His style of play, calm demeanor, and previous connection with the club make him an attractive option.
One of the key concerns for Liverpool when Klopp leaves is getting the fans on board with the new manager. The fans have a deep affection for Alonso, and his appointment could help ease the transition. Additionally, Alonso’s conduct on and off the pitch aligns with the values and culture of Liverpool. While he may not be as animated as Klopp or Mikel Arteta, his approach and commitment to the game resonate with many.
Managing Liverpool is undoubtedly a different challenge from managing Bayer Leverkusen. The pressure and expectations are higher, but Alonso’s ability to exceed expectations at Leverkusen suggests he may be able to handle the pressure at Liverpool. His success in Germany and the positive impression he has made on both players and fans indicate that he has the potential to be a good fit for the Reds.
In conclusion, while there may be concerns about Xabi Alonso’s experience and whether he meets all the requirements for the Liverpool manager job, he remains a strong candidate. His success at Bayer Leverkusen, his connection with Liverpool, and his alignment with the club’s values make him an appealing choice. As Liverpool searches for their next manager, they should consider Alonso as a serious contender who could continue the club’s success in the post-Klopp era.