Xabi Alonso has confirmed he will stay on as head coach of Bayer Leverkusen next season, ending speculation he could succeed Jurgen Klopp as Liverpool manager this summer.
Sky Germany had previously reported that the Spaniard had told Bayern Munich, who were also interested in the 42-year-old's services, that he would remain in charge of the 'aspirins' who are on course to end Bayern's Bundesliga hegemony .
"It's a season where there's been a lot of speculation about my future - we've had a lot of games so far, we've been pretty busy. I wanted to use this time now, during the international break, to make a decision and last week I had a very good meeting with General Manager Simon Rolfes and CEO Fernando Caro and I informed them of my decision to continue working as Bayer Leverkusen coach. Certainly, all decisions must be analyzed very carefully. I try to take the most correct ones. This is the right way for me to develop as a coach. I'm a young coach, but right now I think this is the right place. I feel very respected by all departments, the fans have been passionately supporting us this year in both the good and bad times we experienced last year. I have a great staff that helps me work better and better every day - and the players give me many reasons to keep believing in this team. Because of their dedication, passion and hunger, I feel that my work here is not done. Taking all these things into account, I think this is the right decision. I'm still young and time will tell, but now I'm happy", the Spaniard began at his press conference ahead of Saturday's Hoffenheim clash.
Alonso has been tipped by many as Klopp's replacement at Anfield, while Bayern were also tipped to succeed the outgoing Thomas Tuchel in the summer with their former player. Leverkusen's Spanish coach declined to comment when asked about interest from Liverpool and Bayern.
"It would not be correct for me to comment on other clubs in this situation. Liverpool and Bayern are clubs that I respect, I have played there, I have a strong connection with them, but it is not correct to talk about them. I am at too early a stage in my career to discuss such things", Alonso added. /BGNES
