Liverpool – Bayer Leverkusen: Slot Shows Alonso Out Of His Old Abode (4-0)

Xabi Alonso attracted Anfield's attention as a long lost son in the summer. However, the faithful in the Kop End have warmed to a different figure, who is leading the club on a prosperous path.

Tactical analysis and match report by Emmanuel Adeyemi-Abere.

Bayer Leverkusen were one of the sensations of last season. In less than two years, Xabi Alonso had staged the downfall of a dynasty. Bayern Munich coughed up their crown in the Bundesliga for the first time in 12 years as Alonso's men were unbeaten in all domestic affairs. Though there were few casualties in the camp over the summer, this squad is now not so blissful. The reigning champions have lost their invincibility and sit seven points off the pace of a brutal Bavarian outfit in the table.

You could forgive followers of their hosts in this fixture for fear at the start of this season. Liverpool looked forward to a future with Arne Slot and without many summer signatures. Yet, the Dutchman has offered a new lease of life to his men, working with the foundations of Jürgen Klopp. As bigger opponents appraise their strength, some things have not changed: Mo Salah still stars as the talisman of their offense while the . . .