For many wondering why Liverpool didn’t go for Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso prior to deciding to sack Arne Slot, it now makes perfect sense after an update involving Andoni Iraola.
Xabi Alonso’s official July 1st arrival at Stamford Bridge marks the beginning of an ambitious new era for Chelsea.
However, his move to the Blues leaves a bitter taste for Liverpool fans, who are realising that Anfield chiefs missed a massive window of opportunity. Throughout a highly turbulent campaign, the Reds had multiple chances to sack Arne Slot, but they refused to pull the plug.
By the time Liverpool finally pulled the trigger, Alonso had already committed to the Chelsea project, but now it looks as if they had an entirely different succession plan after all.
What is Xabi Alonso’s number one priority as soon as he walks through those doors?🤔
Xabi Alonso's priority as Chelsea manager
Photo by Alvaro Medranda/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images
After the shock news that Liverpool decided to sack Arne Slot, Ben Jacobs provided an update on the thinking behind the succession plan, which includes a move for Andoni Iraola.
“Liverpool had held an unwavering position during last season that no change would be made, but the club has now decided to bring in a new coach.
“The aim is to establish a more front-foot, aggressive and urgent style of football. Liverpool decided to move swiftly so as not to overshadow pre-season.
“The decision to appoint a successor is underway with Andoni Iraola a leading contender. The primary objective is to recruit the candidate who best fits the preferred playing style criteria.”
Mohamed Salah back at Chelsea, who says no?🤔
The real reason Liverpool didn’t want Xabi Alonso
Arne Slot’s sudden sacking exposes the real reason Liverpool turned their back on a romantic reunion with Xabi Alonso.
Alonso’s heavy possession and highly structured style has taken him to Chelsea, but the Anfield hierarchy decided that his patient, methodical approach didn’t fit their tactical DNA. Instead, the club is determined to return to a relentless, front-foot style, prioritising a manager like Andoni Iraola.
And this is interesting, because the reason Chelsea gave for liking Iraola wasn’t his aggressive style, it was his use of tall, physical players.
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