Xabi Alonso shows true feelings for Anfield as Liverpool legend returns with Bayer Leverkusen
Xabi Alonso played at Anfield for Liverpool for five seasons before leaving but is back as manager with Bayer Leverkusen and has touched the stadium's iconic sign
by Samuel Meade · The MirrorXabi Alonso tapped the 'This is Anfield' sign on his return to Liverpool.
The former Reds' midfielder was back at the stadium he once called home, but occupied the away dugout with Bayer Leverkusen. The German champions made the trip in the Champions League with lots of the focus on their Spanish manager.
Alonso has enjoyed a rapid rise and was linked with the Liverpool job last term before they ultimately opted for Arne Slot. The 42-year-old had five years as a player on Merseyside and will have walked out at Anfield numerous times.
It has become customary for players to walk out and tap the famous sign as they exit the tunnel and old habits have died hard for Alonso, who gave it a touch as he walked out for the European clash at his former home.
Alonso was part of the Liverpool side that won the Champions League back in 2005. The midfielder scored the equalising goal as the Reds produced a stunning comeback to see off AC Milan on penalties. He claimed more European honours at Real Madrid in 2014.
His Leverkusen side stunned Germany to win the Bundesliga last term and are among the dark horses to make an impact in the Champions League. Alonso though was keen not to make his Anfield return all about him, despite receiving warm applause from the home fans.
He said: "We will see, I will tell you after the game how I feel. There will be a moment for everything, but the main thing is not me. It's the players, how we deal with the emotions you have in this stadium."
Prior to the contest at Anfield Alonso said: "For us it is a big challenge to come here. Liverpool at the moment is one of the best, if not the best, in Europe. It's a good squad, good coach. At Anfield, it's a big challenge. We're looking forward to it, let's see what happens."
Leverkusen have won two of their three European outings, drawing the other, prior to their visit to Liverpool. Domestically they are seven points off of Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich are winning just four of their opening nine games.
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