Liverpool Make Contact with Xabi Alonso as Bookmakers Cut Odds on Slot Replacement
Liverpool have reportedly made contact with Xabi Alonso’s representatives amid growing uncertainty surrounding Arne Slot’s future, following the Reds’ dramatic 3–2 defeat away to Bournemouth on Saturday, January 24.
Despite recovering from a two-goal deficit to draw level at 2–2 against Andoni Iraola’s side, a stoppage-time winner from Amine Adli condemned Liverpool to a crushing loss on the south coast. The result saw the Reds slip from the top four to sixth in the Premier League, with both Manchester United and Chelsea securing victories on Sunday, January 25.
Liverpool’s faltering title defence has intensified scrutiny on Slot, with speculation further fuelled by Alonso’s recent exit from Real Madrid. The former midfielder mutually agreed to leave the Spanish giants on January 12 after just seven months in charge, with Álvaro Arbeloa stepping in as his replacement.
Alonso had previously been linked with the Liverpool job following Jürgen Klopp’s departure in 2024, but instead chose to stay on as Bayer Leverkusen manager for another season. Slot arrived at Anfield and lifted the league title in his first campaign. However, questions are now being raised over whether Alonso could soon take charge of his former club.
Spanish outlet AS reports that Alonso is “keen on a return to Anfield,” with initial contact between Liverpool and his representatives said to have been “positive.” The report adds that the role is considered “appealing” to the 44-year-old.
Slot recently dismissed speculation surrounding Alonso as “one of the strangest” questions he has faced in a press conference. Speaking ahead of Liverpool’s Champions League match against Marseille, the Dutchman joked that Alonso had called him to ask about the squad ahead of a supposed takeover in six months.
Slot added that he enjoys his role at Liverpool, pointing to last season’s title win while acknowledging the team’s struggles this campaign, before questioning what more could be said on the matter.
Despite Slot’s comments, Alonso remains the bookmakers’ favourite to become Liverpool’s next permanent head coach. According to Oddchecker, as of 12:10pm on January 26, Alonso is priced at 10/11, ahead of Paris Saint-Germain boss Luis Enrique at 2/1 and Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner at 10/1.
Next permanent 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