Xabi Alonso brings his Bayer Leverkusen club to Liverpool on Tuesday night, after being highly connected with the Anfield post earlier this year.
After Jurgen Klopp declared his intention to quit the Reds midway through last season, Alonso swiftly emerged as the leading candidate.
The Spaniard thrived in midfield for Liverpool during his playing career and has thoroughly impressed as Leverkusen manager after retiring.
However, he turned off offers from Merseyside and another old club, Bayern Munich, to stay with Leverkusen following their stunning Bundesliga title last season.
Read Also:Benzema Sends ‘They’re going To Kill Him’ Message To Mbappe
When asked why he turned down Liverpool ahead of an emotional return this week, Alonso said: ‘At the time I was focused, I had a major event with the guys, and we were really focused on that.’
Understandably, the 42-year-old was eager to focus on the task at hand, with Liverpool in excellent form under Arne Slot. Reported by Metro.
‘Let us talk about the game tomorrow; it is more exciting than my future. Let’s talk about the great players on both sides; that’s what’s on my mind,” he remarked.
‘For us, coming here is a huge challenge. Liverpool is currently one of, if not the best, teams in Europe, as evidenced by their performances in the Premier League and Champions League.
‘We have a solid group and a competent coach. This is a significant task at Anfield. We are looking forward to it; let us see what occurs.
He said on Slot, who has begun brilliantly at Anfield: ‘Liverpool are in a fantastic period. I followed Arne Slot while he was at Feyenoord. I am aware of his approach. That, along with the energy here in Liverpool, makes for a good blend.
‘That is why they lead the Premier League and the Champions League. They are strong in every aspect.
The manager has done a fantastic job in the past three months. For us it’s a big challenge to come here. At the moment Liverpool are one of the best if not the best team in Europe. We have our plan so let’s see what happens.’
COMMENTS