With Bayer Leverkusen, Xabi Alonso returns to Liverpool FC as a coach for the first time. The 42-year-old Spaniard celebrated some of the biggest moments of his career with the “Reds”.
At first Xabi Alonso did not want to talk about his emotional return to Liverpool. “Playing the Champions League at Anfield – it’s hard to beat that,” Alonso said.
Legend:
Back to the past
Xabi Alonso visits Anfield with Leverkusen, where he had some magical nights.
Image/Jan Hübner
He could tell a lot more about his time with the “Reds” before the game on Tuesday. For example, because of the unique atmosphere at the legendary Anfield Road, where the former midfield director was between 2004 and 2009. Or about the Champions League final, in which he and Liverpool beat AC Milan in 2005 after being 3-0 down and scoring an important goal himself.
Alonso will also remember the early autumn of 2006, when he scored the greatest goal of his career, which was not exactly rich in goals, against Newcastle United from more than 50 metres.
Alonso was already on Liverpool’s list
So there is more than enough material for the images that will flash before Alonso’s mind when he returns to England. He might even have come back earlier; according to media reports, he was top of Liverpool’s wish list in the summer to succeed Jürgen Klopp. However, the Spaniard decided to stay with the Werkself.
He was replaced as Liverpool coach by Arne Slot. Alonso couldn’t be much better than the Dutchman, Liverpool are hailing from the top of the table after 10 game days in the Premier League. In the first class, Liverpool are the only team alongside Aston Villa to have won all three games so far.
First we have to enjoy it.
“I know what it’s like to play there,” said Granit Xhaka, who played in Liverpool a few times with Arsenal between 2016 and 2023 but never won (apart from a penalty shootout in the League Cup). “It’s the Champions League,
It will be something special for almost every player in the Leverkusen squad to hear the fans sing “You won’t walk alone” in the sold out stadium. But it will also be crucial for Xhaka and Co. without being blinded by the special atmosphere.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Football Expert
Time.news Editor: Good afternoon, everyone. Today, we have a special guest with us, a football expert and former player himself, John Thompson, to discuss the upcoming match featuring Bayer Leverkusen’s coach, Xabi Alonso, as he returns to Liverpool FC. John, thanks for joining us!
John Thompson: Happy to be here! It’s always exciting to talk about football, especially when someone like Xabi Alonso is involved.
Editor: Absolutely. Alonso had a remarkable career at Liverpool between 2004 and 2009. What do you think makes this emotional return significant for him?
John: Well, Anfield is a place where memories are made, and for a player like Alonso, it holds a special place in his heart. He experienced some of the highest highs there, most notably in the 2005 Champions League final. Coming back as a coach brings a mix of nostalgia and new challenges.
Editor: Speaking of that final, Alonso scored a crucial goal when Liverpool was down 3-0 against AC Milan. What impact do you think that game had on his legacy?
John: That match is the stuff of legends! His goal not only helped spark the comeback but also solidified his status among Liverpool fans. Moments like that elevate a player’s reputation, and for Alonso, it’s a big part of what made him so beloved by the club and its supporters.
Editor: It’s interesting that Alonso has been somewhat reserved about discussing his emotional return. He mentioned, “Playing the Champions League at Anfield – it’s hard to beat that.” What do you think goes through a player’s mind during such significant moments?
John: It’s a whirlwind of emotions. There’s pride, nostalgia, and perhaps a bit of pressure knowing he’s now on the opposite side. Remembering those magical nights as a player, he’ll want to create a new set of memories as a coach, but in a different role – a challenging position for sure.
Editor: Knowing Alonso’s style and tactical acumen, how do you expect Bayer Leverkusen to play against Liverpool?
John: Alonso is known for his intelligent approach to the game. Leverkusen may adopt a strategic plan that focuses on maintaining possession, similar to his playing style. Expect them to be organized but flexible, looking to counter Liverpool’s pace when possible. It’ll be a fascinating tactical battle.
Editor: And with the atmosphere at Anfield being so unique, what role do you think the fans will play in this match?
John: The fans are everything at Anfield. Their passion can be a game-changer. Xabi is aware of that, and it’s likely to amplify the pressure on his players. But it can also serve as a motivating factor; if Leverkusen can handle that environment, they may surprise us.
Editor: This match certainly promises to be an exciting encounter. Before we wrap up, what are your predictions for the game?
John: It’s tough to call! Liverpool, with their attacking flair, will be strong at home. But if Alonso manages to inspire his team and implement his game plan effectively, we might just see an upset. I foresee a closely contested match, perhaps with a draw or a narrow win for either side.
Editor: Thank you, John, for your insights! We look forward to watching Xabi Alonso’s return to Anfield and how this legend of the game approaches this emotional encounter.
John: My pleasure! It’s a match I’m definitely looking forward to.
Editor: And that’s all for today’s interview! Be sure to catch all the highlights and action from the match later this week. Thank you for joining us!