Bundesliga leaders Bayer Leverkusen may not only have to fear the departure of successful coach Xabi Alonso. Sports director Simon Rolfes is also said to be very popular at another club.
As the “Football Insider” portal reports, citing “well-informed sources”, Liverpool FC is putting out feelers for both Alonso and Rolfes.
While the 42-year-old Spaniard is the favorite to succeed Jürgen Klopp, Rolfes is supposed to follow in Jörg Schmadtke’s footsteps according to the current leader of the English Premier League.
The 59-year-old ended his role as sports director at the Reds at the beginning of February after just six months.
Most recently it was said that Liverpool wanted to fill Schmadtke’s position first and only then make the coaching decision.
According to “Football Insider”, the list of possible Klopp successors includes Alonso as well as national coach Julian Nagelsmann, Roberto de Zerbi (Brighton & Hove Albion) and Ruben Amorim (Sporting).
Klopp announced his retirement at the end of the season in January. “I’m running out of energy,” said the former BVB coach, explaining the surprising decision.
Xabi Alonso also traded at FC Bayern
Alonso, who played at Anfield Road for five years as a professional, has been considered the German’s possible (and logical) heir for weeks. However, Alonso should also be a candidate at FC Bayern if Thomas Tuchel no longer works.
The 2010 World Champion and 2008 and 2012 European Champion’s contract in Leverkusen runs until 2026, but there should be a gentleman’s agreement that allows him to move to a top club early. Rolfes is even tied to the Werkself until 2028.
The duo had formed Bayer into an absolute top team in the last few months. In the championship, Alonso’s team is already eight points ahead of rivals FC Bayern. Two further titles are also possible in the DFB Cup and the Europa League.