We could be just a matter of weeks away from Xabi Alonso confirming his future. That could also mean we’re not far off learning more about the next Liverpool manager.
According to Guillem Balague, Alonso is ‘determined’ to make a decision on his future in the next ‘three to four weeks’. At this moment in time though, nothing has yet been decided.
The former Liverpool midfielder is the most sought-after manager in world football at the moment. Both the Reds and Bayern Munich have been linked with his services, with Jürgen Klopp and Thomas Tuchel set to depart in the summer.
Having played for both clubs during his career, questions have inevitably followed Alonso in recent months, especially since Klopp announced his decision to leave back in January. He remains the favorite to take over at both Anfield and the Allianz Arena, although staying put at Bayer Leverkusen has not been ruled out.
Alonso has addressed his future on a few occasions, and given his thoughts on the possibility of becoming Liverpool manager in the past. He first addressed the possibility of taking over from Klopp in January as he responded to the German’s shock announcement.
“First of all, it was a surprise,” he said (via the ECHO). “But I have great respect for Jürgen, huge admiration. What he has achieved and the way he has achieved that.
“At the moment, I am really happy here. I enjoy my work here and feel that it’s given me a challenge. We are on an intense but beautiful journey here in Leverkusen and I’m trying to give my best to help my players be ready for the next thing.”
He added: “To be honest, I am not in that moment, to think about the next step. I am thinking about where I am right now. I think I am in a great place and am enjoying it.
“I think it’s the right place and all that I can say. What’s going to happen in the future, I don’t know. I don’t really care at the moment.”
The question arose again in February, only this time Bayern had been added into the mix. As speculation began to grow about possible talks with the two clubs, Alonso remained tight-lipped.
“Right now I am Bayer Leverkusen coach and that’s certain,” he said (as per the Mirror). “Regarding the future, I have nothing new to say.”
When asked whether he or his agent had received a call from Bayern, Alonso added: “That’s only hypothetical. Again — I have nothing new to say.”
Alonso though has entertained the idea of managing Liverpool in the past. Back in 2018, during an interview with talkSPORT, he said: “Yes for sure, I have dreamt of that, but first I have to prove myself and prepare.
“If I decide somewhere along the way to take my chances as a manager, my link, my commitment, my passion with Liverpool is there. Why not? We will see if we can cross paths in our ways.”
Liverpool.com says: Liverpool would clearly be a big draw for Alonso, but then he is in the unique position of having another huge club vying for his services. At this moment in time though, Anfield has to be the more attractive prospect, and hopefully that will be the decision he comes to in a few weeks
