Online scammers pose as Xabi Alonso seeking donations from Liverpool fans

Police in Thailand have issued a cautionary message to Liverpool fans, urging them to remain vigilant against online scammers impersonating Bayer Leverkusen head coach Xabi Alonso.

The scam involves Alonso supposedly confirming via his Instagram account that he will be taking over from Jurgen Klopp as the new Liverpool coach. However, the scammers request donations of 300 Baht (€7.85) to allegedly help cover the cost of a plane ticket to Merseyside.

The fraudulent message, written in Thai, claims to be from Xabi Alonso himself, stating, "I am Xabi Alonso, I will be in charge of Liverpool next season, but I am short of money for my flights to Liverpool."

The impersonation capitalizes on the anticipation surrounding Liverpool's search for a new manager following Jurgen Klopp's announcement of his departure at the end of the season.

Xabi Alonso, who is currently managing Bayer Leverkusen, is indeed considered one of the leading candidates to replace Klopp.

However, the former Liverpool player has remained reserved about joining The Reds, choosing to concentrate on his responsibilities with Bayer Leverkusen, and as such is yet to make a decision on whether he will replace Klopp, preferring to defer the decision until the end of the season at least.

Law enforcement encourages Liverpool supporters and football enthusiasts to exercise caution when encountering online messages, especially those soliciting donations or personal information. The incident highlights the need for community awareness to protect fans from falling prey to scams in the midst of managerial transitions and transfer speculations in the football world.

As Liverpool fans eagerly await news on the club's next manager, the warning from Thai police serves as a reminder to stay cautious and rely on reputable sources for official announcements. The impersonation attempt by scammers underscores the susceptibility of online communities to fraudulent activities, emphasizing the importance of digital literacy and vigilance.

In conclusion, the caution issued by Thai police sheds light on the evolving landscape of online scams, urging football fans to remain alert and discerning in the digital realm.