Slot in Trouble? Liverpool Contact Xabi Alonso Over Future at Anfield
Liverpool have reportedly taken their first step towards Xabi Alonso as uncertainty continues to hang over Arne Slot’s position as head coach. The former Spain international is currently without a club after his short and demanding spell at Real Madrid ended after seven months.
Liverpool reportedly contact Xabi Alonso as contingency plans take shape while Arne Slot faces growing criticism after another Premier League setback.
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Slot remains in charge at Anfield, but doubts about his long-term future have resurfaced following a dramatic 3-2 defeat at Bournemouth. That result represented the seventh league loss of Liverpool’s underwhelming title defence.
After replacing Jurgen Klopp, Slot delivered immediate success by steering the Reds to the Premier League crown in dominant fashion. This season, however, progress has stalled, with the club struggling to justify record transfer outlay through performances on the pitch.
According to AS, Liverpool are already preparing contingency plans and have made an initial enquiry with Alonso following his exit from the Bernabeu. Reports suggest his time in Madrid was complicated by difficult relationships with players including Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham.
Although his Real Madrid reign lasted just 34 matches, Alonso’s reputation remains high thanks to his Bundesliga-winning campaign with Bayer Leverkusen. His connection with Anfield remains strong, and he was previously considered in 2024 when Klopp confirmed his departure.
At that point, Alonso stated it was “not the right time” to leave Germany. Now, however, he is waiting for attractive opportunities while taking “active rest” and believing he would be warmly received back on Merseyside.
Liverpool are reportedly eyeing him either soon or specifically for the 2026-27 season. Alonso and his representatives are open to approaches from England and are keen on returning to Anfield in the future.
Slot has been informed that he will complete the current season, with Liverpool choosing not to mirror Chelsea and Manchester United, who dismissed Enzo Maresca and Ruben Amorim during the campaign.
Club officials are said to be encouraged by talks with Alonso’s entourage, which have brought reassurance that he would be ready to step in if required.
Slot addressed the rumours with light-hearted comments ahead of a Champions League win over Marseille, dismissing suggestions that Alonso was preparing to replace him and reaffirming his enjoyment of the job.
Virgil van Dijk later described the ongoing speculation as disrespectful while admitting the campaign has been challenging for both players and manager, though he praised Slot’s leadership.
Liverpool next face Qarabag on Wednesday, with Slot still in charge as the Reds aim to secure Champions League qualification and continue their pursuit of FA Cup success in the 2025-26 season.
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