Xabi Alonso says it 'didn't feel like the right timing' to leave Bayer Leverkusen and become the new Liverpool manager.

The former Reds midfielder has been heavily linked to be the man to take over from Jurgen Klopp, who leaves Anfield in the summer.

Alonso has thoroughly impressed at Leverkusen, who are set to win the Bundesliga and remain unbeaten in all competitions.

Given his links to Liverpool and success in Germany, it came as no surprise that he emerged as a potential successor to Klopp.

However, he recently announced he is staying at Leverkusen and has now provided more detail on his decision to remain at the club.

Alonso, who only joined in October 2022, said to TNT Sports: "There were many reasons [for deciding to start at the club]. After one year, we're building a team, we're building a great spirit here.

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"There were many reasons and so many players. The season has been great so far, and for sure we want to keep having this thing together.

"I felt part of it. After one year, it didn't feel like the right timing, and that's why I'm committed."

Although Liverpool have missed out on his appointment, Alonso also hinted that he could work in the Premier League in the future.

“You never know,” he said via The Guardian ahead of Leverkusen's Europa League quarter-final clash against West Ham on Thursday, live on talkSPORT 2.

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