Xabi Alonso will stay at Bayer Leverkusen rather than become Liverpool's new manager.

Reds legend Alonso was seen as the early favourite to replace the outgoing Jurgen Klopp but they are now exploring other options.

The Spaniard has also been heavily linked with a switch to his fellow former club Bayern Munich, who see Thomas Tuchel leave at the end of the season.

However, after initial reports on Thursday night, Alonso has now confirmed his decision to remain at Leverkusen amid an incredible second year in charge at the club.

Speaking on Friday, Alonso said: "We have been here many times. It has been a season with much speculation regarding my future and until now we have had so many games.

"We have been pretty busy, pretty focused, and I wanted to use that time of the international break to reflect a little bit better and to make a decision.

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