Liverpool Sound Out Xabi Alonso as Slot Faces Mounting Pressure
Liverpool have made initial contact with Xabi Alonso as uncertainty grows around Arne Slot’s future at Anfield, with the club sounding out the former midfielder’s interest in a potential return to Merseyside amid a faltering title defence.
The approach comes in the wake of a dramatic 3-2 defeat away to Bournemouth, a result that marked a seventh Premier League loss of the season for the reigning champions and intensified scrutiny on Slot after a campaign that has failed to match last year’s standards.
Slot delivered the league title in emphatic fashion last season following Jurgen Klopp’s departure, but this term has told a different story. Despite record transfer spending, Liverpool have struggled for consistency and cohesion, raising questions about long-term planning in the dugout. Alonso, currently unattached after a short and difficult spell at Real Madrid, remains highly rated following his Bundesliga title triumph with Bayer Leverkusen.
The defeat at Bournemouth underlined Liverpool’s broader issues. A lively home crowd sensed vulnerability early on, and the Reds were repeatedly exposed during transitions, with their usual control in midfield missing as the match developed.
Liverpool were punished for defensive lapses and an inability to manage key moments, allowing Bournemouth to capitalize on turnovers and maintain pressure. While the visitors showed flashes of attacking quality, they failed to dictate tempo or shut the game down when chances arose.
Bournemouth struck decisively at crucial stages, combining direct running with clinical finishing. Liverpool responded with goals of their own, but each equalising effort was followed by renewed pressure that eventually told, culminating in a late winner that sealed a memorable home victory.
After the interval, Slot adjusted his shape in search of greater control, pushing bodies higher up the pitch. Liverpool created openings and carried more threat, yet the lack of defensive stability continued to undermine their progress as Bournemouth remained dangerous on the break.
The closing stages were tense, with Liverpool pushing forward in numbers and leaving space behind. Bournemouth exploited that imbalance, delivering the decisive blow and sending a clear message about Liverpool’s current fragility.
Behind the scenes, Liverpool are planning for multiple scenarios. Spanish outlet AS reports that discussions with Alonso’s representatives have been positive, with the club viewing him as a potential option for the near future or the 2026-27 season. For now, Slot has been assured he will see out the campaign, starting with the upcoming Champions League clash against Qarabag, but the pressure is unmistakably building as Liverpool weigh their next move.