Liverpool board back Arne Slot despite growing Xabi Alonso rumours
Liverpool executives are maintaining their support for head coach Arne Slot despite a difficult Premier League campaign and growing speculation surrounding Xabi Alonso.
The defending Premier League champions find themselves out of the title race and struggling to secure a top-four finish.
However, senior sporting directors Richard Hughes and Michael Edwards reportedly believe the Dutchman can guide the club through this turbulent period.
The Anfield hierarchy acknowledge the exceptionally difficult circumstances faced this season, including the tragic loss of forward Diogo Jota.
Crucial cup ties await
Survival in his current post may ultimately depend on the outcome of two defining fixtures over the coming weeks.
The Merseyside outfit travel to Manchester City on Saturday for a pivotal FA Cup quarter-final.
A massive Champions League last-eight encounter against Paris St-Germain will follow shortly after on Wednesday, 8 April.
Elimination from both competitions, coupled with a failure to close the gap on the league’s top five, could force a dramatic shift in the boardroom’s stance.
Slot remains pragmatic
The former Feyenoord boss has not shied away from questions regarding his job security amid mounting external pressure.
“If any manager around the world loses football games, let alone so many as we’ve lost, it’s quite normal that people have an opinion about that.”
“And if that’s fair or not fair, that’s for the people to judge.”
Barnes warns against Alonso return
Calls from supporters for a change in the dugout have intensified following a high-profile managerial casualty in Spain.
Former Reds midfielder Xabi Alonso is currently available after being dismissed by Real Madrid in January.
Despite the romantic appeal of bringing the Spaniard back to Anfield, club legend John Barnes has urged caution.
The former England winger insists the current manager remains capable of steadying the ship and delivering long-term success.
