Xabi Alonso became a global star at Liverpool and cemented his legendary legacy at Bayern Munich – but who else has crossed the red divide?
Ahead of the legends match between the two clubs on Saturday, bundesliga.com picks out five players that captured the imaginations of fans at Anfield Road and in Munich alike…
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Xabi Alonso
Bayern Munich appearances: 117
Liverpool appearances: 210
This legendary Spanish midfielder is often remembered as “the last gentleman of football”, a more than well-deserved title. After breaking through Real Sociedad’s youth system, the Basque star propelled his boyhood club to a surprising second in La Liga for the 2002/03 campaign.
After impressive performances for the txuri urdin over five seasons and becoming a regular for Spain’s national team, Alonso became a prime target for the European elite clubs. In 2004, he was seduced by his countryman Rafael Benitez’ Liverpool and immediately hit it off with Steven Gerrard in the Reds’ midfield.
He was also a vital member of the legendary team that swept football fans across the world off their feet in the Champions League final against AC Milan. Alonso’s composure helped his teammates to stay in the game mentally and his 60th minute equaliser allowed them to dream the impossible and make football history.
Servus @fcbayern #Repost @fcbayern (@get_repost) ・・・ Servus @xabialonso! ">https://www.instagram.com/p/BZhH5JGglzJ/" data-instgrm-version="8" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
Servus @fcbayern #Repost @fcbayern (@get_repost) ・・・ Servus @xabialonso!