The question of Xabi Alonso's return to Liverpool: the reality was different

The question of Xabi Alonso's return to Liverpool: the reality was something else

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Background

Xabi Alonso has experienced many important moments for Liverpool in his career, including his goal in the 'Miracle of Istanbul'. Currently, he is the manager of Chelsea and will lead his team against Liverpool. His managerial skills led him to an unbeaten double at Bayer Leverzen, further highlighting his potential.

Why it matters

The prospects of Xabi Alonso returning to Liverpool have been a significant topic of discussion for the club. Following the possible resignation of Jürgen Klopp, Alonso was considered a suitable replacement, but Liverpool preferred Andoni Iraola. Alonso's managerial career has been successful at Bayer Leverzen and Chelsea, which leaves no doubt about his ability.

Key points

• The question of Xabi Alonso's return to Liverpool: The reality was different.
• The possibility of Xabi Alonso returning to Liverpool as manager was discussed, but the club preferred Andoni Iraola. Alonso has had a successful managerial career, and now leads Chelsea..
• Xabi Alonso's return to Liverpool felt inevitable – behind the scenes, the reality was always different - Yahoo Sports.

Xabi Alonso, a brilliant passer and midfielder with the ability to score goals from distance, was always known for his pinpoint accuracy. For years there has been speculation that he would move up to a managerial role at Anfield as a former Liverpool midfielder. However, when that opportunity came, he was on opposing technical grounds: first Bayer Leverkusen, then Real Madrid, and now Chelsea, the club he had beaten in two Champions League semi-finals on Merseyside two decades earlier. Alonso has scored several goals for Liverpool, including his first goal against AC Milan in the 'Miracle of Istanbul'. Liverpool have seen their decline since being sold to Real Madrid in 2009. When he led Leverzen to the Invincible Double, he appeared to be Liverpool's manager.

When Jürgen Klopp announced his resignation in January 2024, Alonso appeared to be the most suitable candidate. Jürgen himself also hinted at seeing Alonso as his successor. He added that "Alonso is a great player." But Liverpool management did not take any action on this. Bayern Munich tried to get Alonso, but Liverpool could do nothing.

"I was in Leverzen at the time and was aware of the situation but I decided to stay," said Alonso. He never spoke to Liverpool. It was even more surprising that they did not do the same in 2026. Two years earlier, Ruben Amorim was incorrectly reported as the frontrunner, while Arne Slot was appointed. Slot won a Premier League title while Real, who was Alonso's third superclub, hired him a year later. But his dismissal at Real in January was seen as a waste of time. Alonso's availability made him the obvious choice.

When Liverpool decided to remove the slot, they chose an outsider, but one who represented the identity they had adopted following Alonso's departure. Andoni Iraola's high-energy style is similar to Klopp's, designed to add strength to Anfield. Iraola, who was hired to Burnmouth by former Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes, was a hidden candidate.

Alonso and Iraola share the same agent, meaning the new Chelsea manager was always aware of Liverpool's thinking. They have been friends since childhood, when they played for Antiguoco in San Sebastián. "We were good friends, we played together, we were in the Spain national team, but now they are the opponent and we want to beat them," Iraola said.

Alonso's coaching career has been influenced by Carlo Ancelotti and Pep Guardiola, and he has also played for José Mourinho. Iraola's selection marked the future of Liverpool. Alonso's managerial experience and ability to win trophies far exceeds that of Iraola. However, Liverpool chose Iraola as their future forward.

What will happen next

Now, Alonso will play in the Carabao Cup against Liverpool as the manager of Chelsea. This match will be a special opportunity for him, because he has scored many important goals for Liverpool. Due to his journey with Chelsea and his past with Liverpool, this match is likely to be an exciting encounter.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened to Xabi Alonso's return to Liverpool?

There was a possibility of Xabi Alonso returning to Liverpool, but the Liverpool management did not take any action on it.

Who touted Xabi Alonso as Liverpool's potential successor?

Jurgen Klopp hints at seeing Xabi Alonso as his successor.

Why hasn't Xabi Alonso talked to Liverpool?

Xabi Alonso said he was at Bayer Leverzen at the time and decided to stay there.

Why did Liverpool management not choose Xabi Alonso?

Liverpool management made no move to appoint Xabi Alonso even though he was an obvious choice.

What changed in the situation of Xabi Alonso?

Xabi Alonso took managerial roles at Real Madrid and then Chelsea after Bayer Leverzen, but did not move to Liverpool.

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