Xabi Alonso is a free agent following his Real Madrid exit a week after Ruben Amorim departed Manchester United
Xabi Alonso head coach of Real Madrid during the press conference ahead to the Spanish Super Cup final match between FC BArcelona and Real Madrid at King Abdullah Sports City Hall Stadium on January 10, 2026 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Xabi Alonso is now without a job (Image: Getty Images)
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Free agent Xabi Alonso has previously made his position clear regarding the Manchester United hotseat.
The former Liverpool midfielder was sacked from his position as Real Madrid boss on Monday, just a day after his team's 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final.
Alonso, 44, had only been in the role at the Spanish giants for eight months. His exit means one of the most sought-after managers from two summers ago is now available again.
Liverpool were reportedly keen on bringing their former star back to replace Jurgen Klopp, whilst Bayern Munich and Madrid had both pursued him for their managerial positions.
He chose to stay at Bayer Leverkusen for last season, with the Red Devils also being turned down by Alonso before ultimately deciding to extend Erik ten Hag's contract, according to The Mail.
The report aligns with earlier suggestions that the ex-Spain international would be hesitant to accept the Old Trafford position due to his enduring connection to Liverpool. Despite leaving Anfield for Madrid nearly 17 years ago, Alonso remains beloved by Liverpool supporters and has previously acknowledged his continued closeness to the club he referred to as a "family".
Arne Slot and Xabo Alonso
Xabi Alonso was reportedly a target for Liverpool and Manchester United before joining Real Madrid(Image: Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
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Speaking to Liverpool's club website upon his return to Anfield for a charity match in 2022, he said: "Once a Red, always a Red. It's not a logo, I think it's a reality. Not just my case, I think that most of us feel really close to the club.
"Wherever you are in the world, Liverpool fans remember you and they keep you closer to the club. That's the best thing of Liverpool. All the support and all the family that's around the world."
Following his departure from Madrid, speculation linking Alonso with Liverpool resurfaced almost immediately, though such a move appears somewhat unrealistic. Arne Slot has successfully stabilised matters at Anfield following an alarming spell towards the end of last year which saw the reigning Premier League champions stuck in mid-table.
Xabi Alonso playing for Liverpool
The Spaniard maintains a love for Liverpool(Image: Photo credit should read PAUL BARKER/AFP via Getty Images)
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However, the same can't be said for United, who look destined for another season without silverware after getting knocked out of the FA Cup by Brighton this past weekend. While Michael Carrick is set to be named interim manager for the rest of the season, it's back to square one for the club as they look to appoint a new permanent boss.
The Old Trafford hierarchy have bought themselves time, but quite where they turn next is anyone's guess. It appears likely Alonso won't be one of the options, though, having previously made his stance clear.