- Alonso, currently regarded as one of Europe’s most promising coaches
- Liverpool remain fifth in the Premier League, still within range of Champions League qualification
- Alonso’s credentials make him an attractive replacement
Liverpool FC is reportedly preparing for a managerial overhaul, with German media claiming that Arne Slot could leave the club by summer following a disappointing season.
According to Bild, Eko Hot Blog gathered that Xabi Alonso has emerged as Liverpool’s preferred candidate to succeed Slot. However, the former midfielder is reportedly only willing to take the role if he is given significant control over squad planning and recruitment.
Slot’s future has come under scrutiny after a series of poor results, including a 2-1 defeat at Brighton & Hove Albion, marking Liverpool’s tenth league loss of the season,a factor widely seen as critical in evaluating his tenure.
Despite their struggles, Liverpool remain fifth in the Premier League, still within range of Champions League qualification.
Recent form, however, has been concerning: the Reds have earned just four points from their last four matches, while rivals Aston Villa and Chelsea have also struggled during the same period.
Alonso, currently regarded as one of Europe’s most promising coaches, is not expected to step in mid-season. He is targeting a summer appointment, with conditions that would give him influence over player recruitment and squad structure, a limitation he faced in prior managerial roles.
Liverpool’s interest in Alonso dates back to 2024, when sporting director Michael Edwards attempted to bring him to Anfield. Alonso declined at the time, focusing on his successful tenure at Bayer Leverkusen, where he led the club to an unbeaten Bundesliga title.
The club’s upcoming rebuild could also be accelerated by the potential departure of Mohamed Salah, who, despite a contract until 2027, is reportedly set to leave at the season’s end after scoring 255 goals in 435 appearances since 2017.
Slot has defended his record, highlighting the €500 million investment last summer, including the signing of Florian Wirtz, and balancing over €300 million in player sales such as Luis Diaz. Critics, however, argue he has struggled to integrate the squad effectively.
Alonso’s credentials make him an attractive replacement. Known for tactical clarity and player development, he helped Wirtz become one of Europe’s most creative midfielders during their time in Germany. A reunion at Anfield could see Wirtz play a central role in Liverpool’s attack.
Having won the UEFA Champions League with Liverpool and both the World Cup and European Championship with Spain, Alonso is viewed internally as a fitting figure to lead the club into its next phase.
