Slot in trouble again? Liverpool contact Xabi Alonso’s agent after Bournemouth defeat

The atmosphere at Anfield has shifted from optimism to anxiety following a dramatic night at the Vitality Stadium. Liverpool’s impressive 13-match unbeaten streak across all competitions, which began in late November, came to a bitter end last night. 

The Reds suffered a heartbreaking 2-3 defeat against Bournemouth, with the decisive goal conceded in the final minutes of stoppage time. This loss is more than just a blow to morale; it places Liverpool’s Champions League aspirations in serious jeopardy. If rivals such as Chelsea, Brentford, or Manchester United secure positive results today, Slot’s men risk falling out of the top 5 entirely.

In reality, this inconsistency has plagued the club since the start of the campaign, making it difficult for the owners to maintain full confidence in Arne Slot. The pressure is particularly intense given that the board sanctioned a record-breaking summer transfer spend of over £450 million to revamp the squad. Despite this massive investment, the team has struggled to find a cohesive identity on the pitch.

According to a recent report from the Spanish outlet AS, key figures within the Liverpool hierarchy have identified Xabi Alonso as the primary candidate to lead the club forward. Alonso is currently available after being dismissed by Real Madrid earlier last week. 

The report suggests that Liverpool have already initiated contact with Alonso’s long-time agent, Inaki Ibanez. Initial discussions are said to be positive, largely due to the deep emotional connection Alonso shares with the club. Furthermore, the 44-year-old tactician reportedly prioritizes the Anfield "hot seat" over any other managerial vacancy at this moment.

However, a swift appointment may not be on the horizon. Noted journalist Jose Felix Diaz adds that Alonso is in no rush to return to the dugout. Having worked tirelessly for nearly three years, the Spaniard intends to take a period of "active rest" to recharge his energy before selecting his next challenge. 

This patience is a hallmark of his character; notably, in the summer of 2024, Alonso turned down the chance to succeed Jurgen Klopp, choosing to stay at Bayer Leverkusen for another year before moving to Madrid.

Liverpool fans remember Alonso as a midfield maestro who graced Anfield between 2004 and 2009. During his 210 appearances for the club, he was instrumental in winning the 2005 UEFA Champions League and the 2006 FA Cup. His legacy as a player provides him with immense credit among the supporters.

As for Slot, the Dutchman is expected to be granted the opportunity to finish the current season. The club’s hierarchy is hesitant to make a mid-season change while they are still competing for silverware and a top-five finish. Ultimately, the team’s final standing and their performance in the Champions League will be the deciding factors in whether Slot remains at the helm or if the stage is set for Alonso’s grand return in the summer.