Sure Win
Xabi Alonso Focuses on Football, Not Nostalgia, Ahead of Anfield Return. Ahead of Bayer Leverkusen’s Champions League clash with Liverpool on Tuesday, Xabi Alonso, Leverkusen’s head coach, emphasized he’s focused solely on the game, despite returning to Anfield, where he played from 2004 to 2009. “There’s no time for tourism,” he stated, deflecting questions about his ties with Liverpool.
Historic Season with Leverkusen
Alonso’s Leverkusen achieved a remarkable 2023-24 season, securing the Bundesliga title for the first time in over a decade and breaking Bayern Munich’s 11-year streak. Although they reached the Europa League final, they fell short, losing to Atalanta. This season, Leverkusen has maintained their competitive edge, with just one loss across all competitions, placing fourth in the Bundesliga and sixth in the Champions League.
Connection to Liverpool and Manager Speculation
Alonso, who made 210 appearances for Liverpool and won the 2005 Champions League, was once considered a favorite to succeed Jürgen Klopp. However, he opted to stay at Leverkusen, while Liverpool appointed Arne Slot from Feyenoord.
“Let’s talk about the game. It’s more interesting than my future,” Alonso remarked. He praised Liverpool as “one of the best teams in Europe,” acknowledging the challenge his team faces at Anfield. When asked about the Liverpool fans potentially honoring him, he said, “I’ll tell you after the game how I feel. The main focus is on the players and their performance.”
Respect and Anticipation from Both Sides
Liverpool’s goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher anticipated a warm reception for Alonso but emphasized the team’s focus on securing a win. Arne Slot, Liverpool’s current manager, spoke highly of Leverkusen’s past performances, noting they’ve been slightly less fortunate this season but remain a formidable team.
As Liverpool prepares with 13 wins in 15 games this season, Slot highlighted the need for improvement on both offensive and defensive fronts, especially given Leverkusen’s dynamic style of play. “Football is played in two moments, having the ball and not, and against strong teams… you need to be good on both sides,” he explained.
This fixture promises to be an exciting test, bringing together Alonso’s tactical prowess and Liverpool’s strength under new leadership.
