Xabi Alonso to Liverpool doubt emerges over unexpected potential internal concern

And look, we’re okay with that, but Melissa Reddy’s suggestion that Liverpool may be avoiding a serious look at Xabi Alonso as the Dutchman’s replacement due to fears of a repeat of the “Klopp factor” is troubling.

**“Why do the drops of information against Xabi Alonso centre around his use of a back three at Bayer Leverkusen when he employed a back four at Real Sociedad B and Real Madrid?”**the former Sky Sports reporter wrote on her personal Substack.

“While there are doubts around the 44-year-old’s coaching ceiling as he’s in the embryonic stages of his career and he is not the slam dunk portrayed, is part of the issue also the popularity he would automatically command?

“As succession planning is constantly worked on, what characteristics would the club be looking for now in their next head coach?”

Xabi Alonso seems to be the best candidate available

Is it possible that Liverpool’s decision-makers would sooner stick with Arne Slot for another season than commit to his potential Spanish successor for fear of the power balance swinging back toward the manager?

Reddy’s absolutely right to point out that the 44-year-old’s potential return at Anfield would be a popular decision.

But at the moment, there are also some pretty significant doubts over whether both Edwards and Richard Hughes will still be at the club beyond the upcoming summer window.

In that case, is the decision to hold on to Arne Slot one made in the interest of guaranteeing some continuity at the club amid some key exits behind the scenes?

If that’s the rationale, it’s a poor one. Liverpool look utterly rudderless on the pitch, to the point that it’s hard to see how a change – any change – wouldn’t lead to a notable uplift in performance levels.

And given that the likes of Luis Enrique and Hansi Flick likely won’t be on the market this summer, we don’t really see a better alternative to Alonso.

More Stories / Latest News

Xabi Alonso to Liverpool doubt emerges over unexpected potential internal concern

May 11, 2026 15:24

Liverpool summer signing hits career milestone in derby triumph prior to potential title decider

May 11, 2026 15:08

‘Ngumoha struggled in the game’ – Pundit reacts to Anfield frustration

May 11, 2026 14:45