Both Liverpool and Bayern Munich, both looking for a new coach, were looking to sign Xabi Alonso, who leads Bayer Leverkusen, as their top priority target.
Despite various reports and ambiguities surrounding his departure, the Spanish captain has decided to remain at the club for the upcoming season.
The club’s challenge in the Bundesliga began in the middle of last season, and this season they showed their unparalleled strength. They reached the semifinals of the DFB Pokal and the quarterfinals of the Europa League.
His coaching skills were highly regarded, partly due to his connection with the club during his playing days, and he continued to be named as the manager who could succeed Jurgen Klopp’s long term regime.
However, Liverpool has now had to change its sights to other candidates, and is eyeing Ruben Amorim and others.
The former Spain midfielder, who has made a major decision regarding his own departure and is now facing the possibility of a move to Real Madrid next season, has spoken his mind after assuring that this is the best option for him.
“I had a good meeting with Bayer Leverkusen and I informed them that I will stay and continue at the club. After lot of talks about my future, I used the break to reflect and make my decision. This is the place to be for me.”
“My job at Bayer is not over. I want to help the club, help the players to develop, the board is great. it’s all fantastic here. I’m still young coach but I think this is the best decision for my future. I took my time and I’m sure about that.”
“I’m grateful to Bayer and the board, the players, the fans. I feel that this is the best way, to continue together. I have also informed the players, it’s true. My deadline was this week, it’s matter of respect. Now everything is clear.”
“I’m not gonna comment about Liverpool or Bayern. These are big clubs and I’ve strong links with them but I’m in the place where I want to be. It’s not time to decide my future now, I want to develop at Bayer Leverkusen.”