Liverpool target Xabi Alonso as former midfielder prepares managerial return
Liverpool have identified former midfielder Xabi Alonso as a primary target to replace under-pressure manager Arne Slot, with the Spaniard reportedly ready to return to the dugout.
The Merseyside club are currently locked in a tense battle to secure Champions League qualification with only seven Premier League matches remaining.
Despite lifting the domestic title last season after inheriting Jurgen Klopp’s squad, the Dutch coach has overseen a deeply disappointing follow-up campaign.
Missing out on elite European competition is widely considered an unacceptable outcome for the Anfield hierarchy, raising major doubts over the current regime.
Alonso prepares for dugout return
The 42-year-old World Cup winner has reportedly decided he expects to be back in charge of a senior side by the start of the 2026-27 season.
This timeline aligns notably with growing internal uncertainty at Anfield regarding their present tactical direction and long-term project.
The former Real Madrid and Bayern Munich playmaker remains highly regarded following his historic, undefeated tenure at Bayer Leverkusen.
During his time in Germany, he guided Die Werkself to an unprecedented invincible Bundesliga triumph, comfortably dethroning long-standing champions Bayern.
Tactical shift awaits the Reds
A potential appointment would represent a significant shift in playing philosophy for the six-time European champions.
The Spanish tactician heavily favours structured positional play and a controlled tempo, contrasting sharply with the relentless high-intensity chaos traditionally associated with Liverpool.
However, his preference for a double-pivot system and ball-playing central defenders would theoretically suit the technical personnel currently stationed in the North West.
A transition period would undoubtedly be required if the club ultimately decides to pivot toward this methodical philosophy in the upcoming transfer window.
