Jurgen Klopp understands why Xabi Alonso wants to remain at Bayer Leverkusen, where he is performing very well, as he decided to reject offers at the beginning of his managerial career and has never regretted it.
Alonso has been connected with both Liverpool and Bayern Munich positions during an impressive season for Leverkusen, as they are on track to win the Bundesliga title.
However, the Spaniard has chosen to turn down the opportunities from his former clubs and will stay with Leverkusen next season.
When asked about Alonso’s decision not to come to Anfield or go to the Allianz Arena, Klopp did not comment on what it means for Liverpool, but does sympathize with the decision after staying at his first job, Mainz, from 2001-08 before moving to Borussia Dortmund.
‘The one part I can talk about is a young manager being at a club where he is doing really well,’ Klopp told a press conference on Friday. ‘I had a similar situation and did pretty much the same, if you want, and never regretted it.
‘That’s pretty much everything I can say, he is doing an incredible job there. Leverkusen has a good team, probably will keep the team together, I think that’s possible as well and it’s not every year like that.
‘I understand that he wants to do that. or the other stuff there’s nothing I have to say about it, to be honest, that’s it.’
He added on Alonso’s success in Germany: ‘He put an idea on the pitch and they stick to it and they are incredible.
‘On top of that they have created a mentality that is really special, we win a lot of late games, they win a lot of late games, it’s crazy.’
Explaining his decision to stay at Leverkusen at a press conference on Friday, Alonso said: ‘It’s been a season of speculation regarding my future.
‘So far we have been busy and focused on the season and I wanted to reflect during the international break and make a decision.
‘Last week I had a meeting where I informed Leverkusen’s directors that I wanted to continue as coach of Bayer Leverkusen. for sure, the decisions need to be analyzed as well. I try to make the right ones in a natural way.
‘This is the right place for me to grow as a coach. I am a young coach. The club has 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.’
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