Image Credits: Imago Images
Xabi Alonso left his role as Real Madrid head coach earlier last month. The decision followed Madrid’s 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Supercopa de España final in Jeddah.
Former Liverpool defender Alvaro Arbeloa, previously in charge of Castilla, has since been appointed as his replacement. Alonso had requested reinforcements during the winter transfer window, but the club opted against signings.
Reports cite several factors behind his departure, including inconsistent performances, results, the handling of the Vinícius situation, and tensions with fitness coach Antonio Pintus.
Madrid had endured a poor run before Christmas, winning just two of eight matches, though form improved with five straight victories prior to the Clásico loss.
Alonso has since been linked with Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur and Bayern Munich. He is considered a leading candidate at Anfield should the club decide to part ways with Arne Slot, with Liverpool winning only six of their last 20 Premier League matches despite strong Champions League form.
Manchester City are also monitoring Xabi Alonso as a leading candidate to replace Pep Guardiola should he step down at the end of the season.
Guardiola is expected to make a final decision on his future later in the campaign. Reports suggest the 55-year-old is growing weary after last season’s trophyless run, with the prospect of another without silverware looming.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Xabi Alonso is keen to return to management as soon as possible. The former Liverpool midfielder is eager to get back into work and does not want to spend an extended period away from the dugout.
Romano said on his YouTube channel: “Xabi Alonso wants to return as soon as possible. Xabi doesn’t want to waste any time, doesn’t want to relax, doesn’t want to rest. Sometimes, managers, when they get out of the club, they want to rest a bit. It’s not the case of Xabi Alonso. So Xabi is ready to return as soon as possible.”
Read more: Borussia Dortmund identify potential Nico Schlotterbeck replacement
UEFA officially releases statement on European Super League
Tottenham told to hire former Liverpool striker as new manager
Want to get the latest Liverpool news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.