Xabi Alonso will stay with German champions-elect Bayer Leverkusen next season, in a crushing blow to former clubs Bayern Munich and Liverpool.

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• Alonso to stay at Leverkusen
• Spanish head coach confirms decision
• Blow to suitors Bayern & Liverpool

• Table of Contents

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  WHAT HAPPENED?

  The Spaniard had been considered the priority candidate for the soon-to-be vacant managerial roles at both the Allianz Arena and Anfield, but having guided his side to within touching distance of a first-ever Bundesliga title amid a remarkable unbeaten season, he has announced he will stay with Leverkusen this summer.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  As expected, Alonso communicated his decision in a press conference on Friday, with suitors Bayern already informed of his choice. It emerged on Thursday that Liverpool had given up hope of bringing him in to replace outgoing stalwart Jurgen Klopp in the belief that he would stay at the BayArena, and that has proven to be the case.

• WHAT ALONSO SAID

  Speaking to reporters, the coveted head coach said: "We have had a lot of speculation regarding my future. I wanted to use the international break to reflect and take a decision. Last week, I had a very good meeting and informed the club my decision to continue being coach.

  "My job is not over here. I feel this is the right place for me to be and develop as a coach."

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  DID YOU KNOW?

  Incredibly, Bayer Leverkusen are still unbeaten in all competitions this season under the 42-year-old's tutelage and are on track for an unprecedented treble, if they can continue that run. The Werkself are 10 points clear in the Bundesliga and remain in contention in the latter stages of both the DFB-Pokal and Europa League, where they are set to face Dusseldorf and West Ham respectively.

Tags: Futebol
Category: News