Liverpool quietly checks on Xabi Alonso as uncertainty grows at Anfield
A deliberate pause after Madrid
Xabi Alonso is taking time away from football following an intense and ultimately short lived spell in charge of Real Madrid that began last summer. According to José Félix Díaz of AS, the coach believes another opportunity will present itself naturally and has no intention of rushing back into management.
Those close to Alonso describe this period as active rest, a conscious decision to recover both mentally and physically. Accepting the first available offer would conflict with his long held approach to preparation and responsibility, the report notes.
That thinking reflects choices Alonso has made before. In spring 2024, he turned down interest from Bayern Munich and Liverpool, opting to remain at Bayer Leverkusen because he felt continuity mattered more than timing.
Liverpool reopen informal dialogue
Liverpool have now made a fresh approach, reaching out to Alonso’s representatives to understand his current situation. According to AS, the response from his camp was positive, even though no formal talks have taken place.
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Club officials are said to view Alonso as a potential option either in the short term or as part of planning for the 2026,27 season. The former midfielder spent five seasons at Anfield as a player, a connection that continues to carry weight inside the club.
His agent, Iñaki Ibáñez, is aware of the renewed interest but there is no indication that negotiations are being accelerated or forced.
Pressure and planning at Anfield
Arne Slot remains in charge of Liverpool and has been told he will complete the current season. Internally, however, performances have been closely scrutinised during a campaign marked by inconsistency.
Despite significant spending last summer, results have fluctuated, a pattern underlined by a recent defeat to Bournemouth. That backdrop has encouraged Liverpool’s hierarchy to quietly evaluate future options rather than react later under pressure.
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Sounding out Alonso now allows the club to gauge availability without committing to immediate change.
Why Alonso remains on Liverpool’s radar
According to Díaz, Alonso began to sense his Madrid tenure was nearing its conclusion during the Spanish Super Cup in Jeddah, where a final push for silverware fell short. The aftermath reinforced his view that stepping away was necessary.
Time spent away from daily demands has altered his outlook. While no decision is imminent, the prospect of a return to Liverpool, a club where he is respected both as a former player and as a rising coach, is once again being considered with interest.
Sources: AS, reporting by José Félix Díaz
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