Jurgen Klopp reacts to Xabi Alonso's decision to stay at Bayer Leverkusen

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has admitted he can understand why Xabi Alonso has decided to stay at Bayer Leverkusen.

Alonso was one of the leading contenders to succeed Klopp in the Anfield dugout, but confirmed on Friday he is remaining loyal to Leverkusen and will remain at the club next season in what will likely be a defence of a first-ever Bundesliga title.

Klopp was asked about the Spaniard's decision in a press conference on Friday and revealed he empathised with the situation Alonso has found himself in, having spent a combined 14 years at Mainz and Borussia Dortmund before taking the Liverpool job.

"One part I can speak about, a young manager being at a club where he's doing really well," Klopp began.

"I was in a similar situation, and did pretty much the same if you want. And never regretted it. That's pretty much everything I can say about it.

"Xabi is doing an incredible job there. Leverkusen has a good team, will probably keep their team together. I think that's a possibility, not every year is like that.

"I understand that he wants to do that. For the other stuff, there's nothing I have to say to be honest."

Klopp added: "I cannot think myself anymore in that situation. Do you think he is staying at Leverkusen because he thinks it is too quick [to leave]?

"I don't think you can compare. Leverkusen are really impressive. It's not he just built on last year. He put an idea on the pitch. They stick to it and are incredible.

"They created a mentality which is really special. We won a lot of late games, they won a lot of late games. It's crazy.

"You cannot say for former players it is like this or like that. For some it might be too early, for others not. I don't know."

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