Xabi Alonso will stay with German champions-elect Bayer Leverkusen next season, in a crushing blow to former clubs Bayern Munich and Liverpool.

The Spaniard had been considered the priority candidate for the soon-to-be vacant managerial roles at both the Allianz Arena and Anfield, but having guided his side to within touching distance of a first-ever Bundesliga title amid a remarkable unbeaten season, he has announced he will stay with Leverkusen this summer.

As expected, Alonso communicated his decision in a press conference on Friday, with suitors Bayern already informed of his choice. It emerged on Thursday that Liverpool had given up hope of bringing him in to replace outgoing stalwart Jurgen Klopp in the belief that he would stay at the BayArena, and that has proven to be the case.

Speaking to reporters, the coveted head coach said: "We have had a lot of speculation regarding my future. I wanted to use the international break to reflect and take a decision. Last week, I had a very good meeting and informed the club my decision to continue being coach.

"My job is not over here. I feel this is the right place for me to be and develop as a coach."

Incredibly, Bayer Leverkusen are still unbeaten in all competitions this season under the 42-year-old's tutelage and are on track for an unprecedented treble, if they can continue that run. The Werkself are 10 points clear in the Bundesliga and remain in contention in the latter stages of both the DFB-Pokal and Europa League, where they are set to face Dusseldorf and West Ham respectively.

Buoyed by the news that their coveted coach is staying put, Leverkusen will hope to continue their march towards the league title with a home win against Hoffenheim on Saturday, before turning their attention to the cup semi-final against Dusseldorf in midweek.