Xabi Alonso remains at the top of the managerial shortlist for Bayern Munich, though reports of negotiations between club and manager are wide of the mark.
Christian Falk noted that the Bavarians are ‘still waiting for a signal’ of intent from the Spanish coach.
“The successors to Tuchel are now being discussed at FC Bayern. Xabi Alonso is still Munich’s dream coach,” the German reporter informed CaughtOffside in his exclusive Fact Files column.
“But – despite many reports – there were still no negotiations between Bayern and Alonso.
“What speaks for it: When Liverpool contacted Iñaki Ibáñez, Alonso’s agent, the agent immediately communicated the Reds’ interest to those in charge at Leverkusen. That didn’t happen in the case of Bayern.
“FC Bayern is still waiting for a signal from Alonso as to whether he can imagine a move to Munich. As soon as that happens, they would start negotiations.”
Whether the incumbent Bundesliga champions will get such a signal very much remains to be seen.
Trouble in Munich and a big act to follow in Merseyside
With the exception of BILD, a whole swathe of German reports appear to agree on one thing: Alonso wants Bayern.
If anything, however, Falk’s latest update has made clear that it’s far from being cut and dry.
One thing is certain: the 42-year-old will not rush into a decision. He will be keen to first consider whether the ongoing turmoil behind the scenes in Munich will hinder the next step of his managerial career.
Though the situation is considerably more settled in Merseyside, Alonso would have a big act to follow in Jurgen Klopp.
Likewise, we shouldn’t discount the possibility of the former Real Madrid midfielder staying put with Leverkusen.