I played with Alonso at Liverpool and I’m worried about him replacing Klopp

PETER CROUCH has given his verdict on Xabi Alonso potentially landing the Liverpool job.

The Reds are looking for a new manager as Jurgen Klopp steps down at the end of the season.

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The 42-year-old Alonso is the main takeover candidate during his incredible period at Bayer Leverkusen.

The German club have not lost a match this season and are on course to win the Bundesliga, while remaining in the hunt for glory in the Europa League and DFB-Pokal.

He has been in charge of Leverkusen since October 2022 and Crouch is concerned about his lack of experience as the Spaniard potentially returns to Anfield.

Crouch, who was Alonso’s team-mate at Liverpool for three seasons, said: “I think he is the standout candidate.

“He has done incredible things at Leverkusen and knows the club inside and out.

“I played with him, I know the person. He is a fantastic person, very eager to learn, always asking questions and you knew he would become a manager.”

“But it is still very early and Liverpool is a huge club and you have to follow Jurgen Klopp.

“Time will tell.”

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Alonso is also in the running to be appointed manager of Bayern Munich, while Thomas Tuchel is leaving this summer.

Reports in Germany claim Alonso favors a move to the Bavarian giants as he fears succeeding legend Klopp will be too challenging.

Liverpool have also been linked with Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi, Germany boss Julian Nagelsmann and Sporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim.