Liverpool legend Xabi Alonso performed a classy touch as he return to Anfield.
Alonso received a hero’s welcome as he graced Anfield, giving the iconic This Is Anfield sign a touch before sharing high-fives with fans by the pitch entrance.
The midfield maestro, who etched his name in Liverpool folklore during that unforgettable night in Istanbul back in 2005, has since carved out a reputation as one of the sharpest minds in management at Bayer Leverkusen.
Now at the helm of the Bundesliga giants, Alonso returned to his former stomping grounds in the Champions League on Tuesday as name echoed around the stands.
Since Alonso’s days at Liverpool, the Main Stand has seen some swanky upgrades, but the Spaniard was all smiles about his return. Chatting with Amazon Prime, he couldn’t hide his excitement: “It feels great,” Alonso beamed.
“It can’t get much better than the Champions League at Anfield. I’m really looking forward to the game. I didn’t have a chance to come back as a player but I am back as a manager.
“We need to prepare the game and more focusing on the opponent. For sure, there is a moment when Anfield hits you that you need a plan, but it is more about the football and our idea. Liverpool is probably the best team in Europe but for us, it’s a great game,” reports Liverpool.com.
Alonso is under no illusions about the challenge but remains true to his vision: “The game is a tough one but we need to play with our personality and ideas. Let’s see if that is enough to get something from Anfield.”