Arne Slot’s comments about Xabi Alonso before the Marseille game caused a stir.
Liverpool’s Champions League trip to Marseille has taken on an unexpected side story, with Arne Slot being asked to respond to rumours that never seemed to have any real basis. As the Premier League champions prepared for the match at the Stade Vélodrome, they were seeking clarity and momentum, but the pre-match press conference took an odd turn.
With Xabi Alonso recently dismissed by Real Madrid, the question of whether he might replace Slot was raised—an idea that seemed more like outside speculation than anything grounded in reality.
Slot’s Response to Alonso Speculation
The Dutch coach didn’t hesitate in dismissing the claim ahead of the Marseille game.
“He called me saying he will take over in six months! No, no, no,” Slot joked, immediately making it clear he found the question bizarre.
He then steered the discussion back to the real issues, reminding everyone that context matters.
“I’ve been here 18 months and I enjoy my job,” he said, highlighting the Premier League title Liverpool won in his first season.
Slot admitted this season has been tougher, but he also noted that frustration after a draw with Burnley is not unusual at a club like Liverpool. “The boos… maybe I heard a few, but it wasn’t a lot,” he added, suggesting that emotions often calm down with time and perspective.
Staying Focused on Performance
These comments echoed Slot’s earlier response when asked if he felt under pressure. He admitted he was surprised that faith in him could be questioned after winning the league.
The timing of the question was notable, coming just days after a 1-1 draw with Burnley where Liverpool dominated possession and chances. That result has sparked debate, including Jamie Carragher’s suggestion that Liverpool might be holding back as Slot searches for balance.
However, Slot’s response in Marseille made it clear that criticism and rumours shouldn’t be confused with genuine instability. The former Feyenoord boss has repeatedly said that scrutiny is part of the job, but that doesn’t mean the club is in crisis.
Liverpool currently sits 11th in their Champions League group with 12 points from six games, making the match in Marseille a chance to shift the narrative on the pitch. Slot also has previous experience in high-pressure European fixtures at the Stade Vélodrome, which adds to the significance of the game.
Rather than entertain speculation about potential replacements, Slot emphasized that his focus remains on the team, the work, and the immediate challenge. In a season filled with debate over tactics and confidence, his calm reaction served as a reminder that criticism doesn’t necessarily equal crisis.