How Xabi Alonso's coaching genius can give Man United a headstart on Liverpool

Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso could give Manchester United a double boost next season. Even if he's in the dugout of one of their biggest rivals.

There has been plenty of attention paid to Leverkusen’s unbeaten start to the season, with the team moving five points clear after a convincing 3-0 victory over title rivals Bayern Munich. The quality of Alonso’s team has seen him widely tipped as Jurgen Klopp’s potential replacement at Liverpool.

While United would not wish for Alonso to enjoy a similar level of success if he were to return to Liverpool, close attention will be paid to his progress in Germany. United are continuing to monitor Leverkusen defenders Edmond Tapsoba and Jeremie Frimpong ahead of the summer transfer window.

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The duo form part of the Bundesliga’s most miserly backline, having conceded just 14 goals in 21 league games this season. Both centre-back Tapsoba, 25, and right-back Frimpong, 23, were on the club’s shortlist as possible targets last year and their reputations have only been enhanced by Leverkusen’s continued success under Alonso.

Until the former Liverpool midfielder was appointed in October 2022, Leverkusen were sitting in the relegation zone after a poor start to the previous campaign. The Spaniard led the club to a sixth-place finish, as well as the Europa League semi-finals. This season, Leverkusen remain unbeaten across three competitions while their emphatic victory over Bayern was a statement result that has received plaudits across European football.

United could use Alonso’s coaching