Xabi Alonso rates own chances of becoming next Tottenham manager after ‘astronomical’ Redknapp claim
Xabi Alonso has responded to speculation that he could become the next Tottenham manager after appearing as the latest name on their shortlist.
Tottenham are trying to get a new manager in place for next season after parting company with Antonio Conte in March. They initially put Cristian Stellini in caretaker charge before realising that was a mistake and handing the reins to Ryan Mason instead.
But in the summer, a new permanent appointment will be made. After everything this season has thrown at them, they simply have to get this one right.
Recently, Alonso became one of the latest candidates under consideration by Tottenham. The former Liverpool midfielder is currently in charge of Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen, who he has guided to the Europa League semi-finals this season.
Now, the Spanish tactician has responded to the speculation – and it doesn’t sound like he is thinking about taking the Tottenham job.
“I’ve been in football for many years, rumours are normal but we still have a lot to achieve,” Alonso said at a press conference.
“That’s why my head is 100 percent here for the last few months. And my head is also 100 percent here for next season.”
Nevertheless, Alonso will be attracting the attention of various clubs, depending on what he achieves with Bayer Leverkusen.
Tottenham links with ‘classy’ Xabi Alonso unsurprising
According to former Tottenham midfielder Jamie Redknapp, it isn’t surprising that Tottenham have been paying attention to his ‘astronomical’ impact in Germany.
“Since he’s gone there the transformation in that team has been astronomical so he obviously knows what he’s doing,” Redknapp told Sky Sports.
“Such a classy guy, classy player. I’m not surprised one bit that Tottenham are in for him but there’ll be a lot of other clubs as well.”
Alonso’s Bayer Leverkusen are sixth in the Bundesliga table with four games remaining. Reaching the top four now looks difficult, but they should be in the Europa League or Conference League next season.
Last season, Bayer Leverkusen finished third, qualifying for the Champions League. But things began to unravel for them at the beginning of this season, prompting the departure of Gerardo Seoane as manager in October.
Alonso immediately took his place and has since won 17 of his 31 matches in charge. For perspective, Bayer Leverkusen were in the Bundesliga relegation zone when he took charge, showing the progress he has inspired.
Things aren’t quite as bleak for Tottenham as they were for Bayer Leverkusen prior to Alonso’s appointment, but they could certainly do with an uplift in their mood.
Judging by the 41-year-old’s comments, though, it might have to be someone other than Alonso to inspire it.
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