Jurgen Klopp has lauded Xabi Alonso, one of the frontrunners to replace him at Liverpool, as the "standout" manager of the new generation of coaches.
From the moment Klopp announced last month that he would step down as Liverpool boss at the end of this season, Alonso -- a former midfielder at Anfield between 2004 and 2009 -- has been viewed as the leading candidate to take his place.
- Stream on ESPN+: LaLiga, Bundesliga, more (U.S.)
The Spaniard, 42, has guided Bayer Leverkusen to a five-point advantage at the top of the Bundesliga and the team are one game away from equalling Bayern Munich's all-time German record of 32 games unbeaten in all competitions.