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But Alonso will nonetheless go down in history for the campaign he has masterminded — one which saw Liverpool and other top clubs take an interest in his services.

Liverpool would ultimately turn to Arne Slot, after Alonso made clear his intention to remain with Bayer Leverkusen.

Bayern Munich was forced rather further down its managerial shortlist, and now looks on the brink of hiring Vincent Kompany from relegated Burnley.

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Bayern, of course, will renew acquaintances with Alonso next season, as it bids to reclaim its long-held Bundesliga crown (and finally end Harry Kane's trophy drought).

But Liverpool could be dueling with its former player and one-time managerial candidate even sooner, with the pair set to clash in the transfer market.

As is the nature of football, Alonso will not have long to dwell on his Herculean achievement.

Klopp's old side has now narrowly avoided facing a relegation playoff — helped by goals from Gruda and Liverpool loanee Sepp van den Berg on the final day.

Gruda is contracted until 2026.

The Albanian would surely be tempted if Liverpool firms up its interest, with his profile painting him as a possible eventual heir to Mohamed Salah.

Alonso has certainly made Bayer Leverkusen a more attractive destination than it was before his arrival at the club, but even after this incredible season, he will have to deal with other clubs boasting greater pulling power.

In choosing to stay put, he has consigned himself to this reality.

The question, then, is whether Liverpool is sufficiently sold on Gruda to go into battle with Alonso.