Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool manager, has publicly supported Xabi Alonso's decision to turn down the opportunity to manage Liverpool. The Spanish football legend was at the top of Liverpool’s shortlist for potential successors after Klopp announced his departure at the end of this season.
In a surprising turn of events, Xabi Alonso delivered a blow to Liverpool fans on Friday when he confirmed that he would be staying with Bayer Leverkusen. The 42-year-old Spaniard has been a favourite contender for taking over managerial duties at both Bayern Munich and Liverpool. However, he decided against joining either club and will remain with Leverkusen for at least another year before reassessing his options in 2025.
Klopp backed Alonso’s decision to reject Liverpool and Bayern
The timing of this news provided an interesting opportunity for journalists who were able to ask Jurgen Klopp about his reaction during his pre-match press conference ahead of Sunday’s Premier League match against Brighton. It may come as no surprise that Klopp backed Alonso's decision not to join Liverpool given that he himself had been in a similar position earlier in his career.
Liverpool manager, Jurgen Klopp, said:
"I can talk about being a young manager being at a club and being successful, I did pretty much the same and never regretted it.
"Xabi is doing a great job there and it's possible they can keep the team together. It's not always like that. I understand he wants to do that. Leverkusen are really impressive, it's not like he has built from other years. He has created a mentality that is on the pitch and is really special."
Klopp was once considered one of the most sought-after managers globally but chose loyalty over ambition by sticking with Borussia Dortmund until he felt it was time to move on. His tenure saw Dortmund become the last non-Bayern team to win Bundesliga title.
Alonso right on the footsteps of Klopp
Alonso seems set on following a similar path as Jurgen Klopp did during his early managerial career. While there is one significant difference - it is almost certain that within a year or so, Alonso will move onto managing one of the world’s top clubs - whether it be Bayern Munich, Real Madrid or even still possibly returning back home at Anfield.
Klopp had always passed up such opportunities and instead decided to awaken a sleeping giant by taking over Liverpool in 2015. Alonso, for now, appears to be sticking to the same course. Reports suggest that he may ultimately join one of his former clubs as manager.
Jurgen Klopp's backing of Xabi Alonso's decision not only shows respect between two professionals but also highlights the importance of loyalty and patience in football management. As fans eagerly await the next chapter in Liverpool’s managerial saga, they can take solace knowing that their beloved club is being handled with care and consideration.
