Xabi Alonso has been backed to eventually manage Liverpool despite only beginning his first season in charge of Chelsea.
The Spaniard signed a four-year contract at Stamford Bridge earlier this year and officially began work on July 1.
However, Alonso’s long association with Liverpool continues to generate discussion about whether he could one day return to Anfield as manager.
The Standard reports that a former Liverpool player believes a future move remains expected and could ultimately become inevitable.
There is currently no suggestion Alonso is considering leaving Chelsea.
Xabi Alonso Liverpool links refuse to disappear
Alonso made 210 appearances for Liverpool between 2004 and 2009 and helped the club win the Champions League, FA Cup and UEFA Super Cup.
He was heavily linked with the managerial position before joining Chelsea.
We previously covered how Liverpool had not made a move for Alonso while Chelsea accelerated their appointment.
Alonso later admitted the situation had been about timing when questioned over why he had joined Chelsea rather than returning to Anfield.
His focus now is Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea appointed Alonso on a four-year contract, with the club emphasising his involvement in the wider football project as well as coaching the first team.
Chelsea already have Liverpool reunion coming
Any discussion of Alonso’s long-term future remains speculative.
Liverpool are currently managed by Andoni Iraola, while Alonso is only five Premier League games into his Chelsea tenure.
There is nevertheless an immediate Liverpool reunion on the horizon.
Our Chelsea next-five-fixtures guide confirms Alonso will take Chelsea to Anfield in the Carabao Cup fourth round in late October.
For now, that match rather than his managerial future should provide the most relevant Liverpool storyline surrounding the Chelsea boss.
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