Xabi Alonso will step onto familiar turf at Anfield on Tuesday, this time in the opposing dugout as he leads Bayer Leverkusen against Liverpool in a Champions League clash. The Spanish manager’s return to his former club has fans excited, as Alonso helped Liverpool to Champions League glory in 2005 during his playing days.
Now 42, Xabi Alonso looks forward to the atmosphere of Anfield in what he calls a “beautiful challenge” for his side. Despite reported interest from Liverpool and other top clubs, Alonso chose to stay with Leverkusen, who under his leadership last season achieved a historic unbeaten domestic double and reached the Europa League final.
Leverkusen have had a mixed Bundesliga season so far, but Xabi Alonso is optimistic, believing his squad’s recent performance against Stuttgart signals a return to form. Liverpool, meanwhile, are thriving under new manager Arne Slot, who has them at the top of the Premier League and unbeaten in European play.
For Liverpool fans, Alonso’s return is a special occasion, yet their focus will be on securing three more points to extend their flawless Champions League campaign. As anticipation builds, Alonso’s admiration for Liverpool remains clear: “Champions League at Anfield? It doesn’t get much better than that.”
“This game means a lot to me. It will be a big game. To play in the Champions League, at Anfield, it’s difficult to experience anything better. The atmosphere is great. Liverpool is one of the best teams in Europe at the moment. It’s a huge challenge but a beautiful challenge for us,” he concluded.
