Liverpool have reportedly made contact with Xabi Alonso’s representatives as uncertainty grows around Arne Slot’s future following the Reds’ dramatic 3-2 defeat to Bournemouth on Saturday, January 24.
Despite fighting back from 2-0 down to level the match at 2-2 against Andoni Iraola’s side, a stoppage-time winner from Amine Adli sealed a painful loss on the south coast. The result saw Liverpool slip from the top four to sixth in the Premier League after wins for Manchester United and Chelsea on Sunday, January 25.
Liverpool’s underwhelming title defence has intensified scrutiny on Slot, with speculation further fuelled by Alonso’s recent exit from Real Madrid. The former midfielder left the Spanish giants by mutual consent on January 12 after just seven months in charge, with ex-Liverpool defender Álvaro Arbeloa named as his replacement.
Alonso had previously been linked with the Liverpool job following Jürgen Klopp’s departure in 2024 but chose to stay at Bayer Leverkusen for another season, while Slot arrived at Anfield and won the league in his first campaign. However, questions are now being raised over whether Alonso could finally return to his former club as head coach.
Spanish outlet AS reports that Alonso is “keen on a return to Anfield,” with initial contact between Liverpool and his camp described as “positive.” The role is said to strongly appeal to the 44-year-old.
Slot recently dismissed talk of Alonso replacing him, calling it “one of the strangest questions” he has faced. Ahead of Liverpool’s Champions League match against Marseille, he joked that Alonso had phoned him asking for details about the squad ahead of a supposed takeover.
Slot added that he remains happy in the role, pointing to last season’s title win while admitting this campaign has been more challenging.
Despite that, Alonso continues to lead the bookmakers’ odds to become Liverpool’s next permanent manager. According to Oddchecker, as of January 26 at 12:10pm, Alonso is the favourite at 10/11.
Next Liverpool head coach odds:
Xabi Alonso – 10/11
Luis Enrique – 2/1
Oliver Glasner – 10/1
Steven Gerrard – 16/1
Simone Inzaghi – 16/1
Andoni Iraola – 20/1
Jürgen Klopp – 20/1
Enzo Maresca – 25/1
