Liverpool warned against appointing Xabi Alonso

As Jurgen Klopp prepares to bid farewell to Liverpool at the end of the season, the club faces a crucial decision in selecting his successor, with former player Xabi Alonso emerging as a frontrunner for the managerial role.

However, amid widespread support for Alonso’s potential appointment, concerns have been raised about the timing and suitability of the move.

Klopp’s announcement of his departure, citing exhaustion after an illustrious eight-year tenure during which he transformed Liverpool into a European powerhouse once again, has triggered speculation about the next leader at Anfield.

Bayer Leverkusen manager Alonso has garnered significant attention, given his impressive track record in the Bundesliga, where his team remains unbeaten in 22 games.

Klopp’s public praise of Alonso has fueled speculation further, with many interpreting it as a tacit endorsement from the outgoing manager.

Nevertheless, former Liverpool player Joe Cole has sounded a cautionary note, expressing apprehension about the pressures associated with managing the Reds potentially being “too much too soon” for Alonso’s managerial development.

In a statement made on TNT Sports ahead of Liverpool’s clash against Brentford, Cole emphasized the challenges of following in Klopp’s footsteps, drawing parallels with the difficulties encountered by David Moyes when succeeding Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United.

“While Xabi Alonso is undoubtedly a top manager, the Liverpool job presents unique challenges that may hinder his development,” Cole remarked.

“Replacing Jurgen Klopp is no small feat, and it requires an experienced and resilient figure to navigate the pressures associated with the role.”

Despite concerns raised by Cole and others, Alonso remains a popular choice among Liverpool fans, given his intimate knowledge of the club and his demonstrated commitment to continuing Klopp’s legacy of success.

His potential triumph in leading Bayer Leverkusen to league glory ahead of giants like Bayern Munich could further bolster his credentials for the Liverpool managerial position.