Xabi Alonso is coming back: Liverpool get green light to replace head coach

Liverpool head coach Arne Slot is experiencing a very difficult second season in charge.

The 47-year-old was appointed back in 2024 on a three-year deal from Feyenoord. And the Dutchman got off to the best possible start - guiding the Anfield side to the 2024/25 Premier League title.

The Reds however have been struggling for form this season - languishing in fifth place and their participation in next season’s Champions League far from guaranteed.

With only one year left on his contract it has been speculated that club owners FSG may opt for a change in the dugout over the summer.

Slot’s future prospects would appear to hinge on qualifying for the Champions League although trusted LFC sources indicate that no plans currently exist for sacking Slot.

But all that could change following the news that Xabi Alonso is now ready to step back into management.

Xabi Alonso is coming back

The 44-year-old was on Liverpool’s wishlist prior to Slot being appointed - but opted for an extra year at Bayer Leverkusen.

The Spaniard then made the switch to Real Madrid in time for the FIFA Club World Cup - but his reign at the Bernabeu derailed in January.

Since his sacking the former midfielder’s shadow has loomed large over Slot in the Liverpool hotseat.

And TEAMtalk now claims that Alonso this summer is going to step back into the coaching game - with Liverpool firmly in the frame to sign him.

“He is ready to step back into the dugout, as pressure on Liverpool boss Arne Slot ramps up,” the report reads.

“A return to Anfield is emerging as a genuine possibility.

“No direct talks have taken place at this stage, there is a clear sense of mutual interest between the two parties.”

Pay attention to Chelsea and Man City

The Reds missed out on Alonso once before and will need to ensure they beat off the competition for him this time around.

The Champions League and World Cup winner is wanted by Manchester City as part of their post-Pep Guardiola shakeup while Chelsea too have got an interest in the ex-Red.

“Alonso’s availability has also put him on Manchester City’s radar as they assess long-term options should Pep Guardiola decide to step away,” the report reads.

“Chelsea, too, are understood to have long admired the 44-year-old and continue to keep a close eye on his situation.

“Despite the growing speculation, Alonso’s camp insist that no formal discussions have taken place with any club.”

Slot know what the objectives are for the rest of the season - namely to secure Champions League football. Even that might not be enough to save him as Xabi Alonso comes rapidly into focus.

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