Liverpool’s owners are reported to have made a private decision regarding the possibility of appointing Xabi Alonso as a future manager should a change be required at Anfield.
Liverpool picking up 14 wins in 31 Premier League games in 2025-26 has placed massive pressure on Arne Slot, with many supporters calling for a change of manager in the summer.
Speculation surrounding the long-term future of Slot has intensified in recent months, with inconsistent performances placing the Dutchman under increasing scrutiny.
While there has been no public indication that Liverpool are planning an immediate managerial change, reports suggest the club’s hierarchy have already identified Alonso as their preferred successor if circumstances force them to act.
Paul Joyce reports on Liverpool’s internal thinking over Slot and Alonso
Internally, Liverpool’s ownership group, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), are believed to view Alonso as a natural fit for the club’s philosophy.
??| @_pauljoyce: Liverpool would have studied Xabi Alonso during his time at Bayer Leverkusen. The external expectation is that he would be next in line for the managerial role, but there is little to suggest that aligns with internal thinking. pic.twitter.com/xFvTpT1YTH
— Anfield Edition | æ (@AnfieldEdition) April 2, 2026
The former midfielder remains hugely respected at Anfield following his successful playing career, and his rapid rise as a coach has only strengthened his reputation across European football.
According to the Times’ Paul Joyce, Slot is still believed to have the backing of the club’s leadership in the short term despite the growing noise.
Liverpool are said to be reluctant to make reactive decisions and instead prefer to plan carefully for long-term stability. That measured approach is understood to be why contingency plans are already being discussed behind the scenes rather than rushed into action publicly.
Joyce reports: “While the final leg of the season feels important, FSG do not believe lightning simply struck last term. The prevailing view is that Slot was crucial to the league title and that the head coach with a track record of success has not just disappeared.
“This has been a season of, at times, unprecedented challenges, beginning with the death of Diogo Jota in a car crash. If underlying issues are resolved, gaps in the squad ironed out, then FSG would expect the Dutchman to reassert himself.”
Could Alonso eventually take charge at Liverpool?
Alonso’s credentials make him a particularly attractive candidate.
His tactical reputation and leadership qualities have earned widespread praise during his managerial career, and Liverpool are thought to believe he has the qualities required to lead the club into its next era.
What a Team. What a Season.
We have enjoyed it @bayer04fussball ??? pic.twitter.com/yaCgWTXFgs
— Xabi Alonso (@XabiAlonso) May 27, 2024
His familiarity with the expectations and culture at Anfield is also viewed as a major advantage compared to other potential candidates.
That said, his preferred tactics make for a difficult transition at Anfield in the eyes of the owners.
Joyce reports: “They would, of course, have studied Xabi Alonso during his time at Bayer Leverkusen, and he knows the club having spent five years on Merseyside as a player. The external expectation is that the Spaniard, who is out of work after his sacking by Real Madrid in January, would be next in line for the managerial role, but there is little to suggest that aligns with internal thinking.
“Alonso favours a back three, for example, which is one of the reasons why Liverpool did not pursue Ruben Amorim when pressing ahead with Klopp’s successor.”
While no final decision has been made regarding Slot’s immediate future, the situation is expected to remain under close review as the season progresses.
Results in the coming months could prove decisive in determining whether Liverpool continue under their current manager or move toward a new chapter.
For now, Slot remains firmly in charge, but with Alonso reportedly established as the leading alternative behind the scenes, the club appear determined to ensure they are prepared for any outcome.