Liverpool supporters will love what Xabi Alonso did after thrashing Bayern Munich

Xabi Alonso couldn't hide his delight as Bayer Leverkusen thrashed Bayern Munich 3-0 to open a five-point lead at the top of the Bundesliga.

The Spaniard is currently the bookmakers' favourite to succeed Jurgen Klopp at Anfield after the Liverpool boss announced he would be stepping down from his role at the end of the campaign.

Alonso has taken the Bundesliga by storm since being appointed as Leverkusen boss back in October 2022, and on Saturday recorded his biggest feat to date as his side thrashed the perennial German champions courtesy of goals from Josup Stanisic, Alex Grimaldo and Jeremie Frimpong.

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Victory over Thomas Tuchel's side not only extended Leverkusen's unbeaten run across all competitions to 31 games, but ensured they are in full control of their fate as they chase a first-ever Bundesliga title with a five-point cushion over Bayern.

After the game, Leverkusen showed their appreciation to the fans packed inside the BayArena as the players paraded around the pitch. That was before goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky ushered Alonso over to embrace the adulation of the home supporters.

To the delight of the crowd, Alonso obliged but only after inviting his backroom staff to join in with the celebrations. Swiftly, they all made their way over to buoyant supporters.

It was at that moment that Alonso's bond with the Leverkusen faithful was best encapsulated, as the manager and players stood shoulder-to-shoulder while the fanatics behind the goal celebrated three points which could prove decisive in the race for the Bundesliga title.

Such scenes of camaraderie