Bayer Leverkusen is struggling to reach the high standards it set for itself last season. Xabi Alonso’s team has already dropped points in five of its nine Bundesliga games, while Tuesday’s 4-0 loss at Liverpool in the Champions League was already its second defeat of the season.

Alonso was hot favourite for the Liverpool job when Jurgen Klopp announced in January he was leaving, but quickly ruled himself out of the running.

Xabi Alonso left Liverpool fans after the Spaniard was spotted touching the 'This is Anfield' sign on his way out onto the pitch for Bayer Leverkusen's Champions League tie. The Spaniard spent five seasons at Liverpool between 2004 and 2009 where he established himself as one of the best midfielders in the world.

Arne Slot vs. Xabi Alonso had the makings of an epic battle. In the end it was the Liverpool coach who cruised to victory against the man many believed was destined to take over at Anfield this season.

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

The Reds are sitting pretty at the top of both the English Premier League and Champions League. Read more at straitstimes.com.