Former Spanish international and current Bayer Leverkusen boss, Xabi Alonso, has recently shared his thoughts on Liverpool's prospects in the ongoing season of the Europa League. According to him, Liverpool stands as a strong favourite to clinch the title this year.
Liverpool is currently in search of a new manager to replace Jurgen Klopp who will be stepping down at the end of this season. Alonso, who has been successful with Bayer Leverkusen, is among the top contenders for this position. However, fans were left disappointed when they didn't get to witness a face-off between these two footballing giants during the Europa League quarter-final.
Xabi vs Klopp is on the cards for the Europa final
In Friday's draw for the quarter-finals stage of the competition, Reds was paired against Atalanta while Bayer Leverkusen drew West Ham United. Interestingly enough, both teams have been drawn on opposite sides of the bracket which leaves room for an exciting possibility - they could potentially meet in an epic final showdown.
Alonso expressed his views about how competitive and challenging it would be going forward in this tournament.
Xabi Alonso, Bayer Leverkusen manager, said:
"There are only top teams in the competition.
"But for me, Liverpool are the favourites to win this competition."
As part of their restructuring process post-Klopp era, Liverpool is keenly looking into potential managerial candidates including Alonso himself. The club has prioritised filling up vacancies within its boardroom first and foremost. As part of these changes Michael Edwards will return in a senior role leading efforts towards rebuilding and reshaping future strategies for success at Anfield.
Richard Hughes is also expected to join soon as sporting director adding further strength to their backroom staff. The question remains whether or not under this new leadership structure there will still be interest from Liverpool’s side towards bringing Alonso onboard as manager.
Granit Xhaka backs Alonso to stay for another season
Meanwhile, Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Granit Xhaka has expressed his desire to continue working under Alonso's guidance. Whether or not this will be possible depends on the unfolding of events in the coming months.
Bayer Leverkusen midfielder, Granit Xhaka, said:
"His head is definitely here, the fact that he will take the next step at some point is just football. Of course, we hope that we will continue to work with him for years to come and take the next steps together as a team."
While Liverpool's journey in the Europa League and their managerial hunt continues to unfold, one thing is certain - they have a strong supporter in Xabi Alonso who believes in their potential to win.
