Arne Slot vs. Xabi Alonso had the makings of an epic battle. In the end it was the Liverpool coach who cruised to victory against the man many believed was destined to take over at Anfield this season.

Xabi Alonso is back at Anfield for the first time as a football coach since his player transfer from Liverpool Football Club to Real Madrid in 2009. The Merseysiders take on his Bundesliga-conquering outfit, Bayer Leverkusen, in the Champions League having yet to drop a point in their opening three European fixtures.

The midfielder's career was littered with trophies, including a European Cup and FA Cup win during his time as a Liverpool player. Following the announcement of Jurgen Klopp's departure at the end of last season, Alonso was quickly installed as the favourite to replace him, but he quickly ruled himself out as Leverkusen chased immortality.