Former Liverpool FC player, Dirk Kuyt has thrown his support behind his former teammate Xabi Alonso as a suitable replacement for Jurgen Klopp at Anfield. Kuyt highlighted Alonso’s impressive managerial career start as the basis for his endorsement.
Alonso, who currently manages Bayer Leverkusen, has led his team to an undefeated streak in the Bundesliga this season, surpassing traditional powerhouse Bayern Munich in the league standings.
Leverkusen’s advancement to the Europa League quarter-finals further solidifies Alonso’s managerial credentials.
Liverpool FC reportedly views Alonso as a strong candidate to succeed Klopp at the conclusion of the season, given his managerial success with Leverkusen and his deep connections to the club.
Speaking to the Liverpool Echo, Dirk Kuyt expressed his confidence in Alonso’s coaching abilities, emphasizing his strategic thinking and leadership qualities both on and off the field during their time together as players.
Reflecting on Alonso’s transition from player to manager, Kuyt remarked,
“Xabi was always a guy who was thinking tactically, both on and off the pitch. His progression from managing U23s teams to leading Leverkusen to title contention in Germany demonstrates his managerial acumen.”
Kuyt’s endorsement reflects the belief within Liverpool’s ranks that Alonso has the potential to uphold the club’s success and heritage if appointed as Klopp’s successor.
Highlighting Alonso’s tactical prowess, Dirk Kuyt added,
“People can say maybe it [Alonso taking over from Klopp] has come too quick but sometimes good things come very quickly and for me, definitely, he was always a guy during our playing time that was always thinking about the game; thinking tactically; talking always tactically outside of the pitch.”