Xabi Alonso explains why he snubbed Liverpool and rejected chance to replace Jurgen Klopp

Xabi Alonso has confirmed his intention to remain at Bayer Leverkusen and snub interest from Liverpool and Bayern Munich.

With Jurgen Klopp and Thomas Tuchel having confirmed their intentions to leave their managerial roles at the end of the current campaign, two of Europe’s biggest clubs have already embarked on their searches for new managers.

Alonso, who played for both Liverpool and Bayern over the course of his distinguished career, has enhanced his burgeoning reputation over the course of the current season by leading Bayer Leverkusen to the brink of a rare Bundesliga title and the latter stages of the Europa League.

Having presided over a record breaking 33-game unbeaten run, the Spaniard had been earmarked as the No.1 choice to take over at Anfield and the Allianz Arena but he has decided against jumping ship and will instead remain with Leverkusen.

Explaining his decision at a press conference on Friday, Alonso said: ‘It’s been a season of speculation regarding my future.

‘To now we have been busy and focused on the season and I wanted to reflect during the international break and take a decision.

Xabi Alonso will remain at Bayer Leverkusen despite interest from Liverpool and Bayern Munich (Picture: Getty)

‘Last week I had a meeting when I informed of them [Leverkusen’s directors] to continue being coach of Bayer Leverkusen. For sure the decisions you need to analyse as well. I try to take the right ones in a natural way.

‘This is the right place for me to develop as a coach, I am a young coach. The club had been supportive and I feel respected by all departments. The fans have shown great support and they have reasons to dream for a great season.’

More to follow…