As the managerial carousel spins, Bayern Munich appears to have taken the lead in the race for Xabi Alonso’s services, potentially dealing a blow to Liverpool’s aspirations.
Reports from German sources indicate that Bayern Munich has initiated discussions with Alonso, who has emerged as the most sought-after manager in world football following his remarkable season with Bayer Leverkusen.
At 42, Alonso has propelled Leverkusen to a commanding position in the Bundesliga, putting them ten points ahead of Bayern in the title race. Liverpool, eager to secure Alonso as Jurgen Klopp’s successor, now faces stiff competition from Bayern.
Sky Sport Deutschland reported encouraging signs from the initial talks between Alonso and Bayern, suggesting that the former Liverpool star currently favors a move to the Bavarian giants.
According to Florian Plettenberg, a reporter for Sky Sport Deutschland, Alonso perceives the challenge of following in Klopp’s footsteps at Anfield as daunting. Klopp’s illustrious nine-year tenure at Liverpool, marked by multiple domestic and international triumphs, presents a formidable legacy for any successor to uphold.
In contrast, Bayern Munich seeks a replacement for Thomas Tuchel, whose tenure has been marred by inconsistency. The outcome of Bayern’s Champions League clash with Lazio is pivotal for their season, adding urgency to their pursuit of Alonso.
Amid Leverkusen’s Bundesliga dominance under Alonso’s stewardship, his potential departure comes with a hefty price tag, with reports suggesting a fee ranging from £13 million to £21 million due to a fixed clause in his contract.
While Leverkusen aims to maintain their Bundesliga lead and pursue success in the Europa League and German Cup, Alonso’s contract with the club extends until 2026.
For Liverpool, Alonso’s potential move to Bayern represents a significant setback in their quest for Klopp’s successor. Since Klopp announced his departure at the end of the season, Alonso has been linked with a return to Anfield, where he enjoyed success as a player, winning the Champions League in 2005.
Klopp himself has commended Alonso’s managerial prowess, recognizing his exceptional coaching abilities and the impact he has had at Leverkusen.
As the managerial saga unfolds, Liverpool faces a challenging task in securing their desired successor to Klopp, with Bayern Munich’s pursuit of Alonso intensifying the competition for his signature.
