Xabi Alonso has confirmed that he will continue as the head coach of Bayer Leverkusen for the upcoming season, putting an end to speculation linking him with a potential move to Liverpool to replace Jurgen Klopp. Bayern Munich had also expressed interest in the 42-year-old coach. Leverkusen currently holds a 10-point lead over Bayern at the top of the Bundesliga.

During a press conference, Alonso stated, “I had a very good meeting with Simon [Rolfes, managing director] and Fernando [Carro, CEO] last week and informed them of my decision to continue being the coach of Bayer Leverkusen. I feel this is the right place for me to develop as a coach.”

Alonso had been considered a potential candidate for the vacant Liverpool managerial position, but the club is expected to pursue other options. Bayern Munich also had interest in him as a replacement for Thomas Tuchel. However, Alonso refrained from commenting on Liverpool and Bayern’s interest, stating that he is focused on his current role at Leverkusen.

Under Alonso’s guidance, Leverkusen is on the verge of winning their first Bundesliga title. In his first full season as manager, he led the team to Europa League qualification, and in his second season, Leverkusen remаins unbeaten in all competitions and is poised to end Bayern’s 11-year dominance in the Bundesliga.

As Liverpool prepares for the managerial transition, Michael Edwards has returned as the CEO of football for Fenway Sports Group, the club’s owner. Edwards has also appointed Richard Hughes from Bournemouth as the sporting director.