Alonso's Desirability: Why Liverpool Should Be Chosen Over Bayern Munich

According to recent reports, Xabi Alonso is said to prefer the idea of taking over as the manager of Bayern Munich in the upcoming summer, rather than returning to Liverpool. This preference could be understandable, as it can often be easier to succeed after a less successful period rather than following in the footsteps of a living legend - which is precisely what Jurgen Klopp has become at Anfield.

Alonso's admiration for Klopp extends beyond his coaching qualities, encompassing his strong character and charismatic presence. While many great managers have graced the home dugout at Liverpool, none have connected with the Kop quite like Klopp.

During a recent match against Luton, when the fans became frustrated after witnessing their table-topping Premier League team unexpectedly fall behind, Klopp turned to the Main Stand and called for increased support for his struggling side. What followed was described as a "thunderstorm" and an overwhelming surge of emotion that propelled Liverpool to a second-half comeback, playing what Rob Edwards deemed as "full-throttle football".

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"Their counter-pressing was incredible, it suffocated us, and their fans were amazing - it was difficult for the players to really concentrate," the Hatters boss admitted after the 4-1 loss. "It was like the Kop was just sucking it in and we couldn't really get out of our half. We saw Anfield and Liverpool at their best tonight. I thought they were brilliant."

'Team and the fans changed the game'

Klopp went above and beyond, surpassing his own promises, as he referenced the historic Champions League comeback against Barcelona in 2019, despite previously vowing not to do so. He acknowledged the similarities between the two situations, with numerous players unavailable for the match. Despite the challenging circumstances, Klopp highlighted the team's refusal to give up, describing them as a united and resilient group. He emphasized that without limiting themselves with negative thoughts, they were able to soar and achieve victory.

Given the team's extraordinary performance, it was no surprise that Klopp celebrated not only with the Kop but also with all four corners of the ground, showcasing his appreciation for the unwavering support from every section of the stadium.

Klopp fist pumps for all four sides of Anfield  pic.twitter.com/WqA8C6H3AZ

— Liverpool FC (@LFC) February 21, 2024

In an interview with BBC Sport, Klopp acknowledged the mutual influence between the stadium and the team, stating that they together changed the course of the game. However, it was Klopp himself who ignited the team's performance and serves as the unifying force within the club. This has been evident since his arrival at Anfield in 2015 when he pledged to transform skeptics into believers.

Under Klopp's guidance, Liverpool has achieved six major honors, including their first English title in three decades. As he prepares to depart at the end of the season, Klopp might even add another trophy to his impressive collection. In an era dominated by financially backed clubs like Manchester City, such a triumph would solidify his status as one of the greatest managers in the history of the sport.

Will the dream become a reality?

Succeeding Jurgen Klopp is widely regarded as an incredibly challenging task, given his trophy-winning record and the strong bonds he has formed with both players and supporters. The struggles faced by Manchester United since Sir Alex Ferguson's departure over a decade ago serve as a reminder of the difficulty in replacing a legendary figure.

In this context, Xabi Alonso may view the potential Liverpool managerial role as the right opportunity but perhaps not at the ideal timing. Alonso had previously expressed his desire to return to Liverpool as a manager, having built a strong rapport with the club and its fans during his playing days. However, at only 42 years old, he may feel there is no rush and that the Liverpool job could become available to him again in the future.

Alonso has already showcased his coaching abilities at Bayer Leverkusen, transforming a team that was at risk of relegation into title contenders in just over 18 months. Moreover, his attractive style of play has garnered attention and praise. Consequently, he is highly coveted and regarded as one of the most promising young coaches in the game today, with Klopp himself providing a glowing endorsement of Alonso's capabilities.

'Xabi is the standout'

"Xabi is doing an incredible job," the German told reporters. "If there would not be the rumours around, that's ­completely independent.

"If you would have asked me eight weeks ago about Xabi Alonso, I would have gone: ‘Oh my God.’ The dinosaurs if you want – [Carlo] Ancelotti, [Jose] Mourinho, [Pep] Guardiola, maybe me – we will not do it for the next 20 years. The next generation is already there and I would say Xabi is the standout in that department.

"Former world-class player, from a coaching family as well which helps a little, he was like a coach already when he was playing. The football he is playing, the teams he sets up, the transfers he did, it is absolutely exceptional.

"I played and worked a long time in the Bundesliga and it is super impressive. Not only the points tally, but the way they play. He has super signings for this team, exactly what they needed, and that's really a very special job."

A Liverpool love affair

Indeed, it is highly unlikely that Liverpool supporters would turn on Xabi Alonso quickly, considering the immense adoration he received during his time at Anfield. When there were rumors of his potential departure in 2008, fans expressed their overwhelming support for him during a pre-season friendly against Lazio, an experience that Alonso still holds as one of the most special moments in his career.

Alonso's intelligence, elegance, and determination on the field endeared him to the Kop, but it was his down-to-earth personality and his embrace of the club's culture and the city that truly won over the fans. He even refers to his Liverpool-born son as a "Scouser." It is no surprise, therefore, that the love between him and the supporters was mutual.

Alonso's close connection and strong commitment to the club and its fans were fostered by the mystique of walking down the tunnel at Anfield, touching the sign, and hearing the Kop sing "You'll Never Walk Alone." He embraced the unique personality of Liverpool people, who appreciate authenticity and make individuals feel welcome and part of the community. Alonso recognized this from the very beginning.

Should Alonso return to Anfield as a manager, he would undoubtedly receive the warmest of welcomes. Liverpool fans would grant him more time and patience to lead the club through the post-Klopp era than perhaps any other coach in the game today. However, Alonso might not need an extensive amount of either, given his credentials and the strong foundation he has already built as a coach.

Klopp leaving Liverpool in rude health

You're absolutely right. Unlike Bayern Munich, Liverpool is not in a state of disarray and is well-positioned for future success. While Thomas Tuchel's potential departure from Bayern has created turmoil, including falling out with key players like Joshua Kimmich, Liverpool offers a more stable and promising situation for Xabi Alonso.

At Anfield, Alonso would inherit a relatively young squad that he could mold according to his own vision. While there may be challenges in replacing key players like Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah in the future, Liverpool's midfield overhaul has exceeded expectations, and they possess a deep pool of attacking talent. In fact, no other team in Europe's top five leagues has as many players with 10 goals in all competitions as Liverpool at this stage of the season.

Furthermore, Liverpool has a wealth of exciting young academy graduates who have already made a significant impact at the senior level. Players like Conor Bradley, Jarell Quansah, and Bobby Clark have shown great potential. In a recent match against Luton, Klopp fielded his youngest starting lineup in six years, yet Liverpool still managed to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League.

Regardless of what happens in the remainder of the season, Klopp will be leaving Liverpool in excellent shape for his successor, making it an enticing opportunity for someone like Xabi Alonso.

Anfield is 'pure football'

It's true that Xabi Alonso has a special connection with Bayern Munich, having spent three successful seasons there as a player. Additionally, his time at Real Madrid was also marked by achievements and he may be a strong candidate to take over as their coach when Carlo Ancelotti's contract expires in 2026.

Alonso could choose to stay at Bayer Leverkusen and continue building on the solid foundations he has established there, knowing that Florentino Perez would view him as an ideal successor to Ancelotti. However, in the world of football management, things rarely go as smoothly as planned.

The reality is that two top managerial positions will become available this summer, and Alonso is considered the frontrunner for both roles. At Bayern Munich, he could potentially restore the club to the pinnacle of success. On the other hand, the Liverpool job offers a unique opportunity to take on the perceived "impossible task" and manage at what Alonso considers to be the best stadium in the world.

Alonso has expressed his love for the atmosphere and passion of Anfield, describing it as pure football. As a manager, he would undoubtedly relish the chance to experience it from the touchline. Ultimately, the decision between Bayern Munich and Liverpool will likely come down to personal preferences and the challenge that Alonso is willing to take on.

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