Jurgen Klopp has responded to Xabi Alonso’s decision to officially rule himself out of contention for the Liverpool managerial position.
Alonso’s potential return to Anfield had sparked significant speculation following Klopp’s announcement of his departure at the end of the season.
However, the Spaniard has chosen to remain with Bayer Leverkusen instead.
Klopp said: “I can talk about being a young manager being at a club and being successful. I did pretty much the same and never regretted it.
“Xabi is doing a great job there and it’s possible they can keep the team together. It’s not always like that. I understand he wants to do that.
“Leverkusen are really impressive, it’s not like he has built from other years. He has created a mentality that is on the pitch and is really special.
“You can’t say for former players it might be too late or too early – I don’t know.”
Leverkusen currently hold a commanding lead of 10 points over Bayern Munich at the summit of the Bundesliga, putting them on track to potentially secure their inaugural league title.
Despite strong interest from both Liverpool and Bayern, clubs where Alonso previously showcased his talents, the Spanish midfielder has affirmed his commitment to Leverkusen, opting to remain with the club amid their promising campaign.
“It’s been a season we have had a lot of speculation regarding my future,” he said.
“Until now we have had so many games, been pretty busy and focused, and I wanted to reflect during the international break and take a decision.
“Last week I had a very good meeting when I informed of them [Leverkusen’s directors] of my decision to continue being coach of Bayer Leverkusen.
“For sure all the decisions you need to analyse well. I try to take the right ones, I try to take them in a natural way.
“At the moment this is the right place for me to develop as a coach, I am a young coach. Right now this is the right place. I have to thank the management.
“The club had been supportive and I feel respected by all departments.
“The fans they have shown great support and they have reasons to believe and dream we will have a great season. I have a great staff to help me work day by day, and so for sure the players.”
Read More Liverpool Coverage:
- It’s The Right Place For Me To Be – Xabi Alonso Explains Why He’s Staying at Bayer Leverkusen
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- Sporting CP Boss Ruben Amorim Leading Candidate To Replace Jurgen Klopp After Xabi Alonso’s Decision
- Xabi Alonso Unlikely To Be On Liverpool’s Shortlist To Replace Jurgen Klopp