Liverpool’s Slump Raises Questions as Xabi Alonso Tipped as Potential Successor to Arne Slot
Liverpool’s recent dip in form has sparked early whispers about the club’s future direction, with reports suggesting that Xabi Alonso could one day replace Arne Slot at Anfield.
The Reds have lost three consecutive matches — their first such run since Slot took charge — falling to Crystal Palace, Galatasaray, and Chelsea in a disappointing stretch before the international break. While the pressure on Slot remains minimal for now, the timing of the slump has inevitably reignited speculation about Liverpool’s long-term plans.
From Klopp’s Legacy to Slot’s Start
When Jürgen Klopp announced his departure after nine transformational seasons, many Liverpool supporters feared a decline would follow. Instead, Slot delivered immediate success, winning the Premier League title in his debut campaign and appearing to continue Klopp’s legacy of high-tempo, aggressive football.
The Dutchman is currently contracted until 2027, and early discussions are reportedly underway to extend his deal following his impressive start. Still, the current run of defeats — unprecedented under his management — has reminded fans of how fragile success can be in elite football.
Mendieta: “Alonso Will Be on Liverpool’s List”
Speaking to OLBG, former Spain midfielder Gaizka Mendieta suggested that Xabi Alonso, now managing Real Madrid, could be a natural successor if Slot were ever to leave.
“Could Xabi Alonso end up at Liverpool? I’m sure he could,” Mendieta said. “We always see these links between former players and their old clubs. It’s a big advantage when someone already knows the culture, the city, and the expectations.”
Mendieta added that Liverpool had little reason to pursue Alonso last summer given Slot’s stellar debut campaign, but he expects the Spaniard to remain among the club’s future managerial options.
Alonso’s Rise to Stardom in the Dugout
Alonso’s coaching credentials continue to rise rapidly. After a remarkable spell at Bayer Leverkusen, where he guided the club to an unbeaten Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal double in the 2023–24 season, he took the reins at Real Madrid earlier this year on a three-year contract.
At Leverkusen, Alonso developed several standout players, including Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong, both of whom flourished under his management. His tactical maturity and calm leadership have already earned him comparisons to elite coaches such as Pep Guardiola and Carlo Ancelotti.
A Familiar Face at Anfield
Alonso made an emotional return to Anfield last season with his Leverkusen side in the Champions League, but his homecoming ended in a 4–0 defeat. Despite the heavy loss, he was full of praise for Liverpool and Slot afterward.
“I think they are a complete team,” Alonso said. “They defend well, they score efficiently, and they’re powerful in both boxes. The coach is doing great work — it’s a promising season for them.”
Looking Ahead
For now, Arne Slot’s position remains secure, and Liverpool’s leadership continues to back him fully. However, with football’s ever-changing dynamics — and Alonso’s deep connection to the club as a former player — the speculation is unlikely to fade anytime soon.
If the current slide continues, Liverpool’s hierarchy may once again be faced with a familiar question: could Xabi Alonso be the man to lead the next great era at Anfield?
