Xabi Alonso is focused on success with Bayer Leverkusen this season amid rumours of interest from Liverpool and Bayern Munich.
Alonso has emerged as the most-coveted coach in European football with Liverpool and Bayern understood to be keen on appointing the Spaniard, as two of Europe’s biggest clubs prepare for change in the dugout.
Jurgen Klopp has announced he will step down as Liverpool manager at the end of the season and Alonso – who spent five seasons with the Reds during his playing career – has been installed as the early favourite to succeed the German at Anfield.
Liverpool could face competition from Bayern, however, with Sky Germany reporting that Alonso is the German champion’s ‘top candidate’ to replace Thomas Tuchel, should he be dismissed.
Bayern are eight points behind Alonso’s Leverkusen side in the Bundesliga, increasing the pressure on Tuchel’s position as manager.
Alonso also played for Bayern Munich during a decorated playing career and is appreciated at both clubs. However, the 42-year-old has shown ‘no signs’ of leaving Leverkusen at present and is focused on achieving success at the BayArena.
Leverkusen are unbeaten in 32 games in all competitions this season and are targeting a first-ever Bundesliga title.
Die Schwarzroten are also favourites for the DFB-Pokal and will take on Fortuna Düsseldorf in the semi-finals, with the victors to take on FC Kaiserslautern, FC Saarbrücken or Borussia Monchengladbach in the final.
Leverkusen have not won a major trophy in 31 years and are also in the hunt for the Europa League. The German league leaders eased into the knockout rounds and will discover their opponents for the last 16 when the draw is made on 23 February 2024.
