Liverpool legend EXPLAINS why Xabi Alonso's Leverkusen have been EXPOSED

Former Liverpool star Xabi Alonso has quickly risen as one of the most promising young managers in Europe.

In his first season in charge at Bayer Leverkusen, he guided them to the Bundesliga title, becoming the first side to go 51 games unbeaten last season. He also got them to the Europa League final where they failed to be Atalanta.

However, as this season unfolds, Leverkusen, who currently sit fourth in the table, have seen their tactical style tested more frequently, with opponents increasingly finding ways to exploit weaknesses in Alonso’s system.

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Nicol on how Leverkusen have been exposed

Alonso will make his debut in the dugout at Anfield on Tuesday as Liverpool take on Leverkusen in the Champions League.

Liverpool legend Steve Nicol has recently shared insights on where Alonso’s side have shown vulnerabilities so far this campaign.

"To produce what they did, they would absolutely be at their very best again" said Nicol on ESPN. "When you are the Champions everybody else tries to up their game so everything just becomes a lot harder.

"Even though they are still playing some good football, still creating chances as we saw but that little extra just isn't there. So that little extra not being there means that three points last year is turning into a point this year."

Nicol's thoughts on the game

Nicol also believes no matter who plays for each side, it will be an exciting game of football: "I really don't think it matters how both managers go about it" said Nicol.

"For Liverpool sitting where they are, there's a possibility that maybe you can try and rotate a little bit. Regardless both sides are going to play exactly the way they do so it should be an attacking game of football."

Despite the challenges, Bayer Leverkusen remain strong contenders, and Alonso has proven he has the ability to adapt quickly. For Arne Slot's side they will be determined to make Alonso's return to Anfield unforgettable for all the wrong reasons.

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