Xabi Alonso Tipped for Liverpool Return Amid Slot Backing
Xabi Alonso’s Prospects as Liverpool Manager
Xabi Alonso has emerged as a strong candidate for a future Liverpool managerial role, as backed by his former Reds teammate Igor Biscan. The speculation around Alonso’s return comes at a crucial time for Liverpool, with the club experiencing a difficult run under current boss Arne Slot. Despite recent setbacks, Biscan has given his vote of confidence in both Alonso’s managerial potential and Slot’s ability to turn things around at Anfield.
Xabi Alonso’s Managerial Rise and Liverpool Links
Xabi Alonso, the current Real Madrid manager, has seen his reputation soar following impressive stints at Bayer Leverkusen and now in Spain. Liverpool previously attempted to lure Alonso back to Merseyside after Jurgen Klopp’s departure in 2024. While he opted to continue his journey elsewhere, his leadership and tactical acumen have not gone unnoticed—especially by those who once shared the pitch with him.
Igor Biscan, now leading Al-Ahli, played alongside Alonso during Liverpool’s memorable 2004–05 Champions League campaign. In a recent interview, Biscan highlighted Alonso’s credentials: “Xabi Alonso as Liverpool manager? That’s always a possibility. With the results and structure his teams show, any club would be fortunate to have him at the helm.” Biscan’s endorsement underscores the high regard Alonso holds within the football community, particularly at Anfield.
Arne Slot’s Position at Anfield Remains Secure
Despite Liverpool’s recent 3-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest and a string of six losses in seven games, Arne Slot’s job is not believed to be under immediate threat. Slot, who guided the Reds to a Premier League title, has earned considerable trust from the club’s hierarchy. Biscan was quick to defend Slot, emphasizing the difficulty of following Klopp and the need for patience with a manager still integrating many new signings: “There’s always pressure at this level, but Slot deserves time. What he achieved last season was exceptional, and with time, I’m sure Liverpool will bounce back.”
Reds Still in Title Race Despite Setbacks
Liverpool currently sit 11th in the Premier League, trailing leaders Arsenal by eight points—a gap that could widen further. However, Biscan remains optimistic about the club’s prospects: “I won’t be too negative. Liverpool have faced tough times before and come back stronger. With a run of more favorable fixtures ahead, I believe they can re-enter the title race if they regain form and confidence.”
This positive outlook is shared by many supporters, who have witnessed the team’s resilience in the past. Winning a string of upcoming matches could propel the Reds back into contention and restore belief at Anfield.
Alexander Isak’s Struggles and Potential
Biscan also weighed in on Alexander Isak’s slow start since joining Liverpool from Newcastle United. He noted that the striker’s absence in pre-season and a lack of match sharpness have hindered his adaptation. However, Biscan is confident Isak will soon hit his stride: “He’s a special talent. Like Salah and van Dijk, the quality is undeniable. Once he finds his rhythm and the team builds some momentum, we’ll see the best of him.”
Crunch Time Ahead for Liverpool and Slot
The upcoming fixtures will be vital for Liverpool’s fortunes. The club is set to resume Champions League action against PSV Eindhoven, followed by winnable league games against West Ham, Sunderland, and Leeds United. These matches present an opportunity for Slot to steady the ship and for key players such as Isak to rediscover their form.
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Opinion: Alonso’s Future at Anfield—A Matter of When, Not If
Given Xabi Alonso’s impressive rise as a manager and his deep connection to Liverpool, it seems inevitable that he will one day take the reins at Anfield. While Arne Slot deserves time to build his project, the lure of Alonso—combined with his tactical nous and emotional ties—makes him a perfect fit for Liverpool’s future. The club’s current difficulties are part of football’s cyclical nature, but with patience and the right leadership, brighter days will return to Anfield.
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