Marseille made an approach to Xabi Alonso after Roberto De Zerbi’s departure, but one factor made it an easy decision for the Spaniard.
Alonso is yet to find work after his swift departure from Real Madrid.
When it happened, the links between Alonso and Liverpool were widespread, but Arne Slot has seen his side improve since then and the pressure has somewhat eased.
He remains a top target for other European clubs, but it doesn’t seem like he’s in too much of a rush.
If you were forced to sell one Liverpool player to Manchester United, who goes?
Man United ‘interested’ in Alexis Mac Allister…
Alexis Mac Allister Liverpool transfer rumour
Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images
Marseille went so far as to extend an offer, but it was promptly shut down by the former Liverpool legend.
Xabi Alonso turned down Marseille due to instability
Alonso would have made a great replacement for De Zerbi.
Their tactical visions are fairly similar, with both prioritising positional fluidity and high pressing. Both have found success with a back three as well.
MORE LIVERPOOL STORIES
Temperament-wise, not so much.
Roberto De Zerbi during Bayeux FC v Olympique de Marseille - French Cup 2025/2026
Photo by Franco Arland/Getty Images
But Marseille looked to Alonso, as RMC Sport reported.
They claim the French outfit looked to him shortly after the Italian’s departure, but that the ‘instability’ that has plagued the club in recent years was ‘not conducive’ with the Spaniard’s ambitions.
Alonso wants Liverpool, or something similar
Stability is not so common in the modern game.
Aside from us and Man City, no team in England has been battling at the top most years.
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
Well, with Arsenal you could make that case, but they haven’t got the silverware to back it up.
Alonso came from a situation in Madrid where the club was in transition after some crucial departures. If he is to throw his hat back in the ring, it will be to join a club ready for him to come in and make a difference.
Join Our Newsletter
Receive a digest of our best Liverpool content each week direct to your mailbox