Liverpool legend insists Xabi Alonso will get timely reminder after Reds rejection
Xabi Alonso had the chance to join Liverpool in the summer but chose to remain with Bayer Leverkusen - and will soon take the German side to Anfield in the Champions League
by Simon Mullock · The MirrorRobbie Fowler has told Xabi Alonso that he will get a glimpse of what he missed out on when he takes his Bayer Leverkusen team to Anfield on Tuesday night.
Alonso, who was a key part of the Liverpool side that lifted the Champions League in 2005, rejected the chance to return to his former club to succeed Jurgen Klopp after Leverkusen broke Bayern Munich ’s 11-year stranglehold on the Bundesliga last season.
The Spaniard decided to continue the impressive job he is doing in Germany - opening the door for Arne Slot to take over.
And Fowler said: “It was a big decision to turn Liverpool down - and I know the Liverpool fans were disappointed when it was announced. I think the supporters respected Xabi’s reasons. In normal circumstances he would always get a warm welcome when he returns to Anfield.
“But after Rafa Benitez recently revealed how desperate he was to leave the club when he was a player, perhaps not… Xabi will always be a Liverpool legend for what happened in 2005 - but as soon as the game kicks off, the gloves will be off.
“I’m sure Anfield will make the atmosphere as hostile as possible for every visiting team. Everyone at the club has got high hopes that Arne Slot can take the team deep into the competition.”
Alonso scored Liverpool’s equalising goal as Benitez’s men came from 3-0 down to beat AC Milan on penalties on an epic night in Istanbul. The Reds have already overcome their opponents from the 2005 final, with a 3-1 win in Milan part of their perfect start to the group stage.
Fowler added: “Guiding Leverkusen to the title last season is an achievement that cannot be underestimated. Bayern showed they are still a top team by reaching the Champions League semi-finals and for Xabi to win a Bundesliga and German Cup double and reach the final of the Europa League illustrates what a fine coach he is.
“Leverkusen didn’t just win the league - they won it with plenty to spare and went unbeaten for the entire season. No wonder Liverpool wanted him - although I think they are still happy with Arne Slot.”
Following the game with Leverkusen, Slot’s team will also face reigning champions Real Madrid, Lille, PSV Eindhoven and Girona. Liverpool became European champions for the third time by beating Madrid in Paris in 1981. But the Spaniards inflicted their revenge by overcoming Klopp’s men in Kiev in 2018 and Paris four years later.
Fowler said: “There will be a lot of history on show in Liverpool’s group and obviously the games against Madrid and Leverkusen appear to stand out. But there will also be a bit of extra spice with the Girona game given they are one of Manchester City's sister clubs. I think the fans will be right up for that game as well. They will really want to make a point, not just to Girona but also to City."
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