Arjun Menon
Liverpool have reportedly taken their first concrete steps towards appointing Xabi Alonso as their next manager, with the Spaniard emerging as a leading candidate should Arne Slot’s uncertain tenure at Anfield come to an end.
The 44-year-old only left Real Madrid less than two weeks ago, walking away from the Bernabéu following defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final. Yet despite that recent exit, a swift return to the dugout may already be on the horizon.
Alonso Back on Liverpool’s Radar
According to Diario AS, Liverpool have made contact with Alonso’s representatives to gauge whether he would be interested in taking over at Anfield if a managerial change is made.
The approach revives a long-standing link. Prior to his move to Real Madrid last summer, Alonso was heavily touted as a potential successor to Jürgen Klopp in 2024. In the end, he opted to remain at Bayer Leverkusen for another season before accepting the call from Madrid.
Eighteen months later, the timing may finally align for a return to Merseyside — this time from the touchline rather than the midfield.
Slot Future Under Increasing Scrutiny
Liverpool’s interest comes amid growing uncertainty surrounding Arne Slot, whose future has been questioned for several weeks.
While no decision has yet been taken to part ways with the Dutchman, the report suggests that patience is wearing thin. If the reigning Premier League champions fail to rediscover form in the coming weeks, a change in the dugout could be accelerated.
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Alonso’s availability, combined with his previous association with the club, makes him an increasingly attractive option should Liverpool decide to act.
Alonso Open to Anfield Return
Despite stepping away from football to take a brief break following a demanding spell in Madrid, Alonso is said to be open to becoming Liverpool’s next manager.
While his time at Real Madrid failed to meet expectations, his broader reputation remains strong. His tactical intelligence, man-management skills, and modern coaching approach continue to command respect across Europe.
A move to Liverpool would also represent a different challenge. Anfield offers elite-level competition without the relentless political pressure and dressing-room egos that often define life at the Bernabéu — factors some believe contributed to Alonso’s struggles in the Spanish capital.
A Natural Fit for Both Parties?
For Liverpool, Alonso represents continuity and evolution in equal measure. A former Champions League winner with the club, he understands the culture, expectations, and demands of life on Merseyside.
For Alonso, the role offers a chance to rebuild momentum in a familiar environment, surrounded by a squad capable of competing at the highest level without the suffocating scrutiny that comes with managing Real Madrid.
With lines of communication now open, Liverpool’s interest in Alonso is no longer theoretical. If Slot’s position continues to weaken, the path could soon be clear for one of Anfield’s most popular former players to return — this time as the man in charge.