Liverpool begin early talks with Xabi Alonso as succession plans emerge

Last Updated on 26 January 2026

Reports from AS suggest that Liverpool have already made first contact with Xabi Alonso, quietly sounding out the former Reds midfielder over a potential return to Anfield. It’s not a formal offer, but a significant move at potential long-term planning.

Liverpool’s 2025/26 campaign has drifted off course. Pressure has steadily built, and now, questions over Arne Slot’s future are growing louder with each passing week. For Alonso, the call represents recognition of his growing reputation.

Xabi Alonso lined up in Liverpool’s plans to succeed Arne Slot

According to reports from AS, Liverpool have already taken the first step by making informal contact with Xabi Alonso. This signals that the Spaniard is firmly on their radar as a potential long-term successor to Arne Slot.

While Slot remains in charge and no immediate managerial change is planned, the outreach underlines Liverpool’s desire to plan ahead rather than be forced into a reactive decision.

Alonso is currently without a club after his recent exit from Real Madrid.

As per Spanish reports, the timing of the approach is viewed as deliberate. Liverpool are understood to be gauging both his interest and availability, with early indications suggesting the idea is appealing to the former midfielder.

Highly rated for his tactical intelligence, man-management skills and modern coaching approach, Alonso is seen as a natural fit for Liverpool’s footballing identity. His understanding of the club and his growing reputation on the touchline, makes him an attractive option.

Why Xabi Alonso appeals as both a short-term solution and long-term vision for Liverpool

What makes Xabi Alonso such an intriguing option for Liverpool is his flexibility within succession planning.

In the short term, Alonso represents a low-risk appointment. He’s a coach already aligned with the club’s culture, fluent in its expectations, and capable of steadying the ship without the upheaval that often follows an external hire.

His familiarity with Anfield, and Liverpool’s demands would allow for a smoother transition if change became unavoidable.

Longer term, Alonso fits the profile of a modern Liverpool manager. He is tactically progressive, comfortable with high-intensity pressing systems, and known for adapting structures based on opposition rather than rigid philosophy.

The Spaniard also will be reunited with former players, Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong. This would be a massive reason for Liverpool to give Alonso the job. Slot and his coaching staff have not been able to maximize Wirtz’s potential so far.

Meanwhile, Wirtz enjoyed his best time under Alonso’s tutelage at Bayer Leverkusen. He even wanted to bring him to Bernabeu in the summer. Similarly, Frimpong can also benefit massively if Alonso is brought to the dugout at Anfield.