Arne Slot has endured a difficult 2025/26 season at Liverpool, seeing his future called into question.
There was talk about Liverpool sacking Slot back in late 2025 during a run of nine defeats from 12.
Results have improved since, but the Reds’ performances continue to disappoint.
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Now, amid another questionable display vs Barnsley in the FA Cup, the Dutchman being replaced has once again been mooted.
This time, it centres around the possibility of Xabi Alonso moving to Liverpool.
How weird would it be to see Jurgen Klopp manage another team? At least Alonso can come to Liverpool…
Jurgen Klopp attends Ligue 1 game between Paris FC and Metz
Credit: Antonio Borga/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images
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Will Xabi Alonso replace Arne Slot?
Alonso left Real Madrid this week, and questions are already being asked of an Anfield return.
While covering the Barnsley game for TNT, Steve McManaman suggested some have already started to comment on the Spaniard replacing Slot.
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Though he suggested that the former Liverpool man now being on the market has put no extra pressure on the Reds’ coach, who puts that on himself anyway.
McManaman said: “Well certain people, depending on who you listen to have already started talking about some of their form.
“That will continue if Liverpool fail to show how good they are and it starts tonight.”
He continued: “Life as a football manager, you are 90 minutes away from the pressure coming back on your shoulders and the fact that Xabi now is available, and his history at the club will suggest there’s always going to be pressure.
“But Xabi will be wanted by a number of former clubs he’s worked at, so I wouldn’t necessarily take it as pressure for Arne Slot because he puts pressure on himself anyway.”
CHANGE MY MIND: Xabi Alonso should be appointed Liverpool manager as soon as possible 🔄
Xabi Alonso at Real Madrid C.F. Training Session And Press Conference - UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD4
Credit: Matt McNulty/Getty Images
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Arne Slot has put the pressure back on himself at Liverpool
Last week, we saw some rare praise for Liverpool after they drew 0-0 with Arsenal.
The Merseyside outfit didn’t have a shot on target and were poor in the first half, but it was still viewed by some as an improvement.
However, the display against Barnsley showed that nothing has changed under Slot, and the Reds are still playing some underwhelming football that restricts their ability to create anything in the final third.
If Liverpool had dominated the tie and won comfortably, it could have kept the pressure off the manager for another week.
But the fact that it took two late goals to guarantee the win against League One opposition means ire towards the Dutchman has swiftly returned.
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