Xabi Alonso affirms commitment Leverkusen amid links to Liverpool job

The conclusion of Jürgen Klopp’s tenure at Liverpool was a matter addressed during Xabi Alonso’s latest press conference before his Bayer Leverkusen’s clash against Borussia Mönchengladbach.

German journalists were more than aware of the breaking news and didn’t hesitate to inquire whether the Bundesliga leader’s coach would consider taking charge of the club where he played from 2004 to 2009, lifting a Champions League, a UEFA Cup, an FA Cup, and a Super Cup along the way. Xabi Alonso, with a contract until 2026 at BayArena.

With bookmakers already pricing the former Real Sociedad man as a massive favourite - yes, these things can change - it wasn’t surprising for Alonso to be asked as soon as the first opportunity arose.

“It was a surprise for me. My respect and admiration for Jürgen Klopp have grown more and more in recent years. Not only for what he has achieved with Liverpool but also for the way he has done it,” stated the Leverkusen coach, emphasizing that, for now, his focus is solely on causing a stir in the Bundesliga with the aspirin-themed team:

“Speculations are normal. But my attention is on Bayer Leverkusen. I have great motivation to do a good job here. I am very happy with the team, the club, and everything. I am very happy here. I am not focusing on May but on helping my players in the match against Gladbach.”

Focus solely on Leverkusen and the present for Alonso

“It’s difficult and intense, but it’s a wonderful journey with Leverkusen, and I’m doing everything possible to get the players ready,” Alonso continued. “That’s my goal. I don’t know what will come next. To be honest, I’m not at the moment to think about my next professional step. I’m thinking about where I am right now. I’m in the right place; it’s a great place. That’s all I can say about it. The only thing that matters to me right now is Saturday, that we play well and deserve to win. I don’t know what will happen in the future, and I don’t care at this moment.”

 However, when asked if he could categorically rule out managing Liverpool in the 24/25 season, the former Real Madrid player chose not to close any doors firmly.

“It’s a direct question, but I don’t have a direct answer. The only certainty at the moment is that I am here,” he concluded.