Latest Liverpool news as Xabi Alonso’s reasoning behind staying at Bayer Leverkusen is revealed, while a fresh name is added to the Reds’ managerial shortlist.
Liverpool returns to action this weekend as it welcomes Brighton to Anfield following the conclusion of the last international break before Euro 2024 kicks off on June 14.
We’re now set to enter the business end of the season and Liverpool are in contention for two further trophies having already secured one so far this season. The Reds sit second in the Premier League behind Arsenal on goal difference, and in the quarter-final of the Europa League, where they meet Atalanta in mid-April.
In what is Jürgen Klopp’s last few weeks as manager of the club, the German will want to win both competitions and leave on the best possible note. Here’s your round-up of the latest Liverpool news.
Reason behind Xabi Alonso Bayer Leverkusen stay
Many expected Xabi Alonso to leave Bayer Leverkusen this summer. The Spaniard is on the verge of a historic season with the club, top of the Bundesliga, in the semi-final of the German Cup and in the quarter-final of the Europa League, Alonso could deliver three trophies by the end of his first full season in Germany.
Alonso had been earmarked for both the Liverpool and Bayern Munich jobs, considering his history with both teams, yet it appears his decision to remain with Leverkusen stems from a desire to coach one of his other former sides — Real Madrid.
That’s according to Spanish source AS Diario, who state that had Alonso taken one of the jobs at Liverpool or Bayern, it would’ve likely ruled him out from a move to Madrid.
Carlo Ancelotti is under contract until the summer of 2026, and Alonso could be the Italian’s replacement in two years’ time, hence his decision to remain where he is. Liverpool will pivot to other targets now, including Rúben Amorim and Roberto De Zerbi.
With the news that Xabi Alonso has decided to stay at Bayer Leverkusen, Liverpool will have to look at other names on their shortlist to replace Jürgen Klopp ahead of next season. Sporting CP coach Rúben Amorim and Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi are now high on the club’s list.
Yet a new name has entered the fray: current Aston Villa boss Unai Emery. According to Portuguese source Diario de Noticias, the former Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain and Villarreal coach is now in consideration to replace Klopp.
Emery has performed admirably with Villa, with the Midlands club in the top four of the Premier League and on course for Champions League football next season.
Emery joined Villa from Villarreal in October 2022. He would be an interesting choice for Liverpool, due to his stylistic differences with not just Klopp, but also with fellow contenders Amorim and De Zerbi.
