What Liverpool’s New-Look XI Could Be Under Xabi Alonso With Four New Signings

Liverpool’s starting lineup could undergo major changes if the club decides to replace Arne Slot with Xabi Alonso.

Pressure continues to mount on Slot following Liverpool’s latest disastrous showing at Anfield. The Reds were humbled 4-1 by PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League on Wednesday night, a defeat that has intensified scrutiny on the Dutch manager. Many supporters are beginning to lose confidence in the 47-year-old, despite his impressive first season in which he guided Liverpool to their second Premier League title.

However, the situation has deteriorated quickly, with Liverpool losing nine of their last 12 games in all competitions. As Slot’s position becomes increasingly fragile, Real Madrid manager and former Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso has emerged as a leading candidate to take over.

Liverpool signed two of Alonso’s former Bayer Leverkusen players—Jeremie Frimpong and Florian Wirtz—during the summer, but both have struggled to make an impact. Alonso could be the coach to bring out their best, and he may also push for additional signings if he returns to Anfield.

With rumours heating up, here is a potential starting XI Alonso might favour:

Goalkeeper – Alisson Becker
Despite getting older, Alisson is still among the world’s elite goalkeepers and remains Liverpool’s undisputed No. 1.

Defence – Jeremie Frimpong, Marc Guehi, Virgil van Dijk, Alessandro Bastoni, Milos Kerkez
Alonso often used a back three with wing-backs at Leverkusen, a system Liverpool have the personnel to adopt. Guehi and Bastoni, both linked with the club, could fit into this defensive setup.

Midfield – Aurelien Tchouameni, Dominik Szoboszlai
Tchouameni was once on Liverpool’s radar before joining Real Madrid. Alonso might attempt to bring him in as the anchor of his midfield.

Attack – Florian Wirtz, Alexander Isak, Antoine Semenyo
Alonso knows Wirtz well and could be the manager to unlock his full potential. Semenyo has also been linked with Liverpool and may slot in behind striker Isak.

Predicted XI:
Alisson Becker; Marc Guehi, Virgil van Dijk, Alessandro Bastoni; Jeremie Frimpong, Aurelien Tchouameni, Dominik Szoboszlai, Milos Kerkez; Florian Wirtz, Alexander Isak, Antoine Semenyo.