Adam Crafton from *The Athletic* has suggested that Xabi Alonso would be among the leading candidates to replace Arne Slot at Liverpool—should the club decide to part ways with their manager at the end of the season.
Alonso remains a hugely popular figure at Anfield from his playing days, and despite his most recent spell at Real Madrid, there’s a belief he could be open to returning to Merseyside.Speaking on the latest edition of *The Athletic FC Podcast*, Crafton said Alonso would likely be a natural option if Slot were dismissed, adding that he would be in contention for the job.
The idea gains traction amid Alonso’s reputation as a high-level coach.
Despite a difficult five-month run at Real Madrid that ended in early January, his stock has stayed strong.
Before his time in Spain, Alonso built his legacy at Bayer Leverkusen, where he guided the club to an unbeaten domestic double in 2024.
Some reports claim a verbal agreement could already be in place for Alonso to take over on a three-year contract beginning in June 2026, potentially dependent on how Liverpool’s season progresses.
Supporters often view Alonso as both the tactical and cultural successor to Jürgen Klopp, arguing that his coaching credentials could suit Liverpool’s current needs—especially given the possible influence of former Leverkusen players Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong.
Meanwhile, Liverpool’s situation under Slot appears increasingly precarious. Although Slot earned support after winning the Premier League in his first season, the current campaign has fallen well short of expectations.
Liverpool are reported to be in sixth place, having lost nine league matches, and recent setbacks—along with warnings that Europe could be missed—have heightened concern.
Liverpool also face a major Champions League challenge against Galatasaray after a 1-0 defeat in the first leg.
Crafton acknowledged the complexity of any decision to move on from Slot, noting he has only just won the league and that dismissing him a year later is far from straightforward—but he also indicated that a sacking remains a realistic possibility.
Ultimately, if Liverpool fail to qualify for the Champions League, the club’s leadership may feel compelled to act to prevent a longer-term downturn.
With Alonso currently without a job and waiting for an opening, speculation over Slot’s future is intensifying.
