Bayer Leverkusen are optimistic that Xabi Alonso will remain with the club despite links to becoming Liverpool’s next manager.
Alonso has been installed as the early favourite to take over at Liverpool in the summer, following the announcement that Jurgen Klopp will leave Anfield at the end of the season.
The former has impressed in the infancy of his coaching career, leading Leverkusen to the top of the Bundesliga table this season. Alonso’s side are two points clear of Bayern Munich in the title race and are unbeaten in all competitions this season, with Leverkusen targeting a first-ever Bundesliga crown.
Alonso spent five seasons at Liverpool as a player and Klopp’s shock announcement has made him the leading contender to succeed the German.
However, Sky Germany are reporting that Leverkusen are ‘optimistic’ that Alonso will stay at the BayArena, with the 42-year-old ‘fully integrated into the squad planning and building’ for the 2024/25 campaign.
Alonso addressed rumours linking him to the Reds on Friday, insisting his focus was on Leverkusen and building on a successful start to the campaign.
“I have huge respect for Jurgen, huge admiration before coming to Liverpool and during his years there it has become even bigger for what he has achieved and how he achieved it,” the Spaniard said.
“At the moment I am really happy here, enjoying my work here. Each day and each game is a challenge. We are enjoying an intense but beautiful journey.
“I am not in a moment to think about the next thing. I’m just thinking about what is now. I’m in a great place and I’m enjoying it.”
