Bayer Leverkusen fans must be hating this today, Xabi being talked up as the replacement everywhere. I really do wish Jurgen all the best. But I would hate to see him in charge of another club, it would be like seeing an ex you really liked with someone else. At least I can take solice in that he's not going to manage another club in the UK.
I don't think anyone will ever think anything of this. In 1, 5, 10 years time no one will mention Klopp leaving and the fact that he left in a season that they weren't in Champions League.
The only issue I see with Alonso is whether he feels his story isn't over with Leverkusen. He's only been there 15 months!
Not talking from a judgement perspective, it would be really cool for him to tick off the Europa League which Liverpool do have an historic connection with too. Just more from his own perspective. Recall how pissed Sir Alex was after they were dropped out of the Champions League in his final season - he wanted a good run to sign off with and some dick ref screwed them.
Winning the Bundesliga (possibly unbeaten)... you are not topping that. That is a good way to end any story.
They've not played a minute of CL football yet I just don't think it's a foregone conclusion he joins this soon. He will be Liverpool manager one day, I just dunno if that day is in 2024.
Plus you have the parallels with Klopp before coming to Liverpool. Namely the possibility of winning the Bundesliga against the odds against a much bigger team with a much bigger budget.
Liverpool now confirming this seasons sporting director will leave end of this month. This all points to some sort of plan in place. Announce the new Sporting Director and then in time reveal the manager - who you have to assume is already signed up.
Much like Klopp, I'd also love to see Pep manage in Italy. It's just such a change of pace there, plus the league feels like it's due a ressurgence.
I just don't think (if rumours are to be believed) a clause would exist in his contract to let him manage Liverpool, Real, or Bayern that activates this Summer if he was dead set on managing Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League above all else. I think he would be happy to stay with Leverkusen but if the right job comes calling you don't turn it down. I don't think he turns Liverpool or Bayern down this Summer.
I genuinely can't see him turning it down, especially if he wins the title there. That's not an arrogance thing, but Liverpool are one of the biggest teams in world football, and he's played for us. The only question for me is whether it's too early. We don't want a repeat of Andre-Villas Boas to Chelsea. Still, this is all speculation at this point. Liverpool could well have someone else in mind, and even if it's Alonson, he might turn it down even if offered as you say. As said though, I think Klopp's replacement is already lined up. Whether it's Alonso remains to be seen.
