Liverpool Make Contact Over Xabi Alonso as Future Plans Take Shape

Liverpool have made exploratory contact with representatives of Xabi Alonso as part of their longer-term planning process, following the Spanish coach’s recent departure from Real Madrid. While Arne Slot remains in post, the Premier League club are understood to be monitoring managerial options ahead of the summer, with Alonso emerging as a leading candidate.

According to reports from Spanish outlet As, later relayed by RMC Sport, Liverpool have already sounded out Alonso’s camp to assess his interest in a potential return to Anfield in a managerial capacity. The move reflects a growing sense within the club that succession planning must be addressed carefully after an inconsistent period under Slot.

Liverpool Monitoring Alonso After Madrid Exit

Alonso became available earlier this month after being dismissed by Real Madrid, just six months into his tenure at the Bernabéu. The former midfielder had arrived with high expectations following his impressive work at Bayer Leverkusen, where he established himself as one of Europe’s most promising young coaches.

However, his time in Spain proved challenging. Tactical adjustments failed to settle, and a series of damaging defeats, including losses to Barcelona and Manchester City, undermined his position. A narrow Champions League defeat against Liverpool also added to the pressure.

Despite the short-lived spell, Alonso’s reputation remains strong. His tactical intelligence, calm leadership, and modern coaching approach continue to attract interest from elite clubs. Liverpool’s enquiry is viewed as an attempt to understand whether the former fan favourite would consider returning in a different role.

Arne Slot’s Position Under Increasing Scrutiny

Slot remains Liverpool’s head coach and retains the backing of the board in the short term. However, recent results have placed his position under closer examination. A difficult run earlier in the season, which included nine defeats in twelve matches, raised concerns about consistency and squad adaptation.

Although Liverpool have avoided making reactive decisions mid-season, performances have not always matched expectations. The recent defeat at Bournemouth, following a long unbeaten run that included several unconvincing draws, reinforced doubts about long-term stability.

Internally, club officials are understood to be evaluating multiple scenarios. While Slot is expected to remain in charge until at least the summer, senior figures are keen to ensure that alternatives are identified should a change become necessary.

Positive Signals From Alonso’s Representatives

According to As, Liverpool’s initial contact with Alonso’s entourage was received positively. Discussions were informal and exploratory rather than contractual, but sources suggest the exchanges reassured Liverpool about the coach’s openness to future opportunities.

Alonso, who spent five seasons at Anfield between 2004 and 2009, remains highly respected within the club. His understanding of Liverpool’s culture, combined with his growing managerial experience, makes him an attractive profile for decision-makers.

At present, Alonso is taking time to reflect on his next move. Having been out of work for only a short period, he is reluctant to rush into a new project. Interest has also been expressed by Eintracht Frankfurt following their recent managerial change, highlighting his continued appeal in Germany.

Strategic Planning Shapes Liverpool’s Long-Term Vision

Liverpool’s approach reflects a broader shift towards proactive succession planning. The club previously attempted to recruit Alonso following Jürgen Klopp’s departure in 2024, only for the Spaniard to remain in Germany before later joining Real Madrid.

That history underlines Liverpool’s longstanding admiration for his work. While no formal negotiations are underway, maintaining dialogue allows the club to remain well-positioned should circumstances change.

For now, Slot remains central to Liverpool’s plans, and there is no immediate expectation of managerial upheaval. Nevertheless, the club’s willingness to engage with Alonso’s representatives signals a desire to stay ahead of the curve in an increasingly competitive market.

With Alonso’s availability and strong personal connection to Anfield, the situation is one to monitor closely in the coming months. Much will depend on Liverpool’s end-of-season performance and Alonso’s own assessment of his next career step.