Major update gives Liverpool significant Xabi Alonso boost

However, it now seems that City are heading in another direction. The Guardian reports that ex-Chelsea boss, and former Guardiola assistant, Enzo Maresca is the leading candidate.

That would remove City as Liverpool's biggest threat to Alonso. Because make no mistake - the Reds' best-case scenario is sticking with Slot but having their former midfielder available just in case they're made the wrong decision.

He's their safety net, in other words. It appears Alonso will be exactly that as there isn't another obvious club for him to join ahead of next season.

Liverpool, then, may end up having the best of both worlds with their biggest decision.

Xabi Alonso: Situation Summary

Real Madrid Tenure and Departure

As of 24 April 2026, Xabi Alonso is currently out of work following a tumultuous seven-month stint as Real Madrid manager. After arriving from Bayer Leverkusen in June 2025, Alonso was sacked in January 2026 after losing the Spanish Super Cup final to Barcelona. During his 34 matches in charge, he recorded 24 wins, four draws, and six defeats, leaving the club while they were second in La Liga. Despite a statistically decent record, his tenure was marred by deteriorating relationships with the squad, including public clashes with Vinícius Júnior and tactical disagreements that led to his exit by mutual consent.

Managerial Stats and Recent Links

Before his move to Madrid, Alonso’s stock was at an all-time high after leading Bayer Leverkusen to an unbeaten domestic double in 2024. In the 2025/26 season at Madrid, his team scored 72 goals and kept 10 clean sheets, also reaching the FIFA Club World Cup semi-finals. Since his dismissal, he has remained a high-priority target for several elite clubs. Reports from 23 April 2026 link him to the vacancy at Chelsea following Liam Rosenior's sacking, while persistent rumours of an agreement with Liverpool were recently downplayed by Sky Sports, who suggest Arne Slot will remain at Anfield.

Future Outlook

Alonso remains one of the most sought-after coaches in Europe. While he takes a break from the touchline, he is widely expected to return to management for the 2026/27 campaign. His next move is being closely monitored by several top-flight clubs looking for a tactical reset ahead of the post-World Cup season.