Bayer Leverkusen 'optimistic' of keeping Xabi Alonso amid Liverpool interest

Xabi Alonso, who is living his first experience as a coach of an elite team, has turned Bayer Leverkusen into the Bundesliga's top club even ahead of Bayern Munich.

Under contract until 2026, he is being linked with replacing Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool from the summer, although he is committed to his current project. There are and will be other destinations interested in his leadership, but general manager Simon Rolfes is taking the matter in his stride.

"I remain calm and optimistic. The most important thing for managers is that they feel comfortable and have the feeling that they are in the right place," Rolfes told reporters.

He went on to add: "Xabi knows what he has at the club. He has said that many times. This is how he works with his team and his coaching team every day."