Liverpool have already contacted Xabi Alonso about the role Arne Slot is currently struggling in.
The loss at the Vitality Stadium on Saturday is just the latest on a long list of disappointments for the Reds this season.
Slot is getting most of the blame after Bournemouth stole the win right at the death, and it has caused yet another stir in the manager speculation that has been bubbling all season.
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Mohamed Salah chases the ball during Liverpool's Premier League match against Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium
Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images
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Alonso is Liverpool’s main target should they decide to get rid of the Dutchman, and they can take encouragement from his response to an initial approach.
Xabi Alonso has responded positively to Liverpool interest
FSG have stuck by Slot this season despite a run of form that has left little to hope for with just under half a season to go.
Liverpool have remained insistent that he will stay until the end of the season.
Past May, though, his future is less guaranteed. He may well be replaced by the former Liverpool midfielder.
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AS Diario report: “What the English club is doing is trying to anticipate what might happen and find out if they can count on Xabi.
Xabi Alonso and Arne Slot clasp hands ahead of Liverpool's UEFA Champions League match against Real Madrid at Anfield.
Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images
“Their contact with the manager’s entourage has been positive , which is bringing some relief to Liverpool.”
Alonso wants a short break from management after his Real Madrid stint, which plays into Liverpool’s strategy of sticking by Slot.
Should they need to make the change in the summer, the Spaniard sounds more than keen on taking the role: “He’s waiting patiently before making any decisions, but he knows he’ll be welcomed back to Anfield.
“They’re counting on him for the near future, or for the 2026-27 season, and the man from Tolosa is perfectly happy.”
Xabi Alonso is destined to manage Liverpool
It should come as no surprise that Alonso is interested in taking over at Anfield.
He has close personal ties to the club and will see this as a chance to add to his Liverpool legacy.
Slot may yet turn this season around and keep his job for next season. It’s definitely possible.
Will Xabi Alonso be Liverpool manager by the start of the 2026/27 season?
If no, where will he be instead?
Xabi Alonso pictured during Real Madrid's La Liga match against Real Betis at the Bernabeu (Credit: Getty Images/Alberto Gardin/NurPhoto).
Photo Credit: Getty Images/Alberto Gardin/NurPhoto
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It does feel, however, as though Alonso will be Liverpool manager.
Maybe that will be next season, or maybe in a few years time. Both sides want it — it’s surely a matter of when, not if.
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