Liverpool’s 2025/26 season has fallen well short of expectations, raising serious questions about Arne Slot’s future at the club. After a successful debut campaign that delivered the Premier League title in 2024/25, the Reds have struggled this term. They currently sit outside the top three, battling for Champions League qualification amid inconsistent results, injuries, and the departure of key players such as Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson.
Slot still has a contract until 2027, and club sources indicate that Liverpool’s hierarchy — including FSG, Michael Edwards, and Richard Hughes — intend to give him another season provided the team secures Champions League football. However, growing fan discontent, internal reviews of the backroom staff, and persistent media speculation suggest that a managerial change cannot be ruled out if results deteriorate sharply in the final weeks of the campaign.
The Leading Candidate: Xabi Alonso
If Liverpool do decide to part ways with Slot, Xabi Alonso emerges as the overwhelming favourite. The former Liverpool midfielder, who enjoyed a distinguished playing career at Anfield, has been heavily linked with a return. Alonso was recently sacked by Real Madrid after a brief stint and has since been waiting for the right opportunity. His tactical approach — high-pressing, possession-oriented football — aligns well with Liverpool’s identity, and his deep connection with the club makes him a sentimental yet highly practical choice. Betting markets consistently list him as the clear frontrunner should the position become vacant.
Strong Alternative: Andoni Iraola
Another name gaining significant traction is Andoni Iraola. The Bournemouth manager is set to leave the south-coast club at the end of the 2025/26 season and has impressed with his progressive, attacking style on limited resources. Iraola’s links to Liverpool’s recruitment network, particularly through sporting director Richard Hughes, have strengthened speculation. He is often quoted at attractive odds as a realistic Plan B and remains a strong contender for several Premier League roles.
Other Potential Options
Several other high-profile coaches have been mentioned in connection with the Anfield hot seat:
- Luis Enrique: The experienced former Barcelona and PSG boss brings proven elite-level pedigree, though his links to Liverpool are less concrete.
- Julian Nagelsmann: The young German tactician offers fresh, modern ideas and could become available following his time with the German national team.
- Longer shots include Sebastian Hoeness (Stuttgart), Oliver Glasner, and Thomas Frank. A sensational return for Jürgen Klopp has been floated by fans but is considered highly unlikely on a permanent basis.
What Lies Ahead
Liverpool’s summer transfer window will be critical regardless of who occupies the managerial chair. Strengthening the attack, midfield, and defence will be priorities as the squad looks to challenge for major honours once again.
The coming weeks will be decisive. Strong end-of-season form could secure Slot’s position for 2026/27, while a poor finish might accelerate the search for a successor. For now, the club appears committed to stability, but the pressure is mounting in what has become one of the most closely watched managerial situations in European football.
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