Xabi Alonso is without a shadow of a doubt the firm favourite to succeed Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool this summer. Alonso’s Leverkusen are one of the most exciting sides in European football. The Spaniard has completely transformed them in the space of a year and a half.
To the extent that Leverkusen are still the only unbeaten team from Europe’s top five leagues in all competitions. Meanwhile, this weekend Alonso can take them ten points above Bayern Munich at the top of the Bundesliga table.
His achievements speak for themselves. On top of that, he’s got the affiliation with Liverpool. Having been a player, and a cult hero at Anfield, he is adored by the fans and understands the pressures and expectations at the club.
The man who brought him to Liverpool, Rafa Benitez, will know him better than anyone. Recently, he has given a lengthy interview praising Alonso’s quality. However, Benitez also hinted about his fears of Alonso joining Liverpool.
Rafa Benitez on Xabi Alonso
Speaking to The Guardian, Benitez recalled how he had brought Alonso to Liverpool as a player all those years ago. Back then, many had doubts about the now Leverkusen manager.
“Everybody had doubts. Could he play in England? Not strong enough in the upper body, not quick. There were question marks. We knew he had the talent but there are a lot of players who have talent, who cannot cope with the physicality and pace,” Benitez said.
Benitez also admitted that Alonso always had a great tactical intelligence and footballing mind.
“He was clever and analysed. When you explain things to some players, you have to repeat. Xabi was one who learned quickly.”
The former Liverpool boss also revealed he is a little bit concerned about Alonso moving to Anfield. Given his lack of experience in a top level managerial role, Benitez hinted a move might come a bit too soon for the 42-year-old.
“He’s a big name, good professional, good lad, clever, doing really well so I understand why. [But] imagine Steven Gerrard was around and doing well. Then it would be: ‘Gerrard!’ With social media everything is going too fast so that people don’t see the big picture.”
While we understand Benitez’s fears, it’s important to note Alonso has been working as a manager behind the scenes for several years. He did a brilliant job as a youth coach with Real Madrid’s U14 side, and then he worked at Real Sociedad’s B team for a couple of years as well.
Having that experience as a player at the highest level should help him settle at Anfield as well. All in all, Liverpool should have no qualms about appointing the Spaniard as the club’s next coach.
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