Liverpool legend Steve McManaman believes Xabi Alonso could be ‘waiting’ for Jurgen Klopp’s Anfield exit. However, McManaman insists that Bayern Munich could be Alonso’s most likely destination, with Thomas Tuchel facing pressure in Bavaria.
Alonso has excelled with Bayer Leverkusen, taking the club to the top of the Bundesliga, albeit having played a game more than Tuchel’s Bayern. The Liverpool icon has been linked with three of his former clubs.
The 42-year-old is seen by some as a natural successor to Klopp at Liverpool. Real Madrid have also been linked, with Carlo Ancelotti facing pressure in the Spanish capital. Bayern could also be keen if they move on from Tuchel.
However, McManaman – who has close links with former clubs Liverpool and Real – believes Alonso could wait for another year to see if Klopp remains at Anfield. But the ex-England star points out that Bayern are the club currently showing the strongest interest.
“Xabi is doing really well at the moment. He’s an ex-Real Madrid player and he knows the club inside out,” McManaman told Betfred.
“He’s got history with the club and he’s progressed into management where he’s taken Bayer Leverkusen from the realms of the relegation zone last year to the top of the Bundesliga this year and they’re yet to lose a game this season.
“Real Madrid will cast their net wide and look at managers that play the right style of football, but I think Xabi at this moment in time is catching the eye more than anybody else.
“I know that Bayern Munich are very interested in him as well because Thomas Tuchel’s reputation there isn’t amazing. You never know what might happen, but I just know that there’s interest in Xabi.
“He may personally want the Liverpool job and wait an extra year to see if that position becomes available. It all depends on how happy his ex-club’s are with their managers at this moment in time.
“Liverpool are incredibly happy with Jurgen Klopp and after speaking to people at Real Madrid, I know they’re very happy with Carlo despite the rumours. If anything, it’s probably Bayern Munich who are showing the most interest in Xabi.”
Last year, Klopp penned a new Liverpool contract until 2026. An upturn in form sees the Reds challenging Manchester City and Arsenal for the Premier League title. It is therefore unlikely that the German will depart anytime soon.
