Alonso’s Future and Slot’s Challenges at Liverpool

Xabi Alonso has been speculated as a potential future manager for Liverpool ever since he began his coaching career with Real Sociedad B. His impressive tenure at Bayer Leverkusen culminated in winning a remarkable domestic double in 2024, followed by a move to Real Madrid a year later.

However, Alonso faced challenges in winning over the squad at Madrid and departed earlier this month after a defeat to Barcelona in the Supercopa de España final. While he has been linked with several roles in the Premier League, he is not anticipated to seriously consider any offers until June.

Meanwhile, Slot, who celebrated a Premier League title in his inaugural season at Anfield, is facing increased scrutiny during his second year in charge. Despite a significant summer expenditure, which included the acquisitions of Florian Wirtz, Alexander Isak, Hugo Ekitike, Milos Kerkez, and Jeremie Frimpong, Liverpool currently ranks fourth in the Premier League, 14 points adrift of leaders Arsenal.

In the Champions League, the team finds itself in 11th place but has the opportunity to improve its standing with a victory against Marseille on Wednesday night. Prior to the match, Slot was inquired about any discussions with the recently dismissed Alonso and responded humorously:

“Yes, he called me and asked, ‘What do you think about the team because I am going to take over in six months, can you tell me a little bit more?’ Or maybe earlier, perhaps he takes over tomorrow. That’s the weirdest question I’ve ever received.”

A positive development for Slot is the return of the iconic winger Mohamed Salah, who recently represented Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations. Although they previously had a public dispute over Salah being frequently omitted from starting lineups, Slot indicated that the 33-year-old is likely to start on Wednesday night.

Regarding their relationship, the Dutch manager stated: “It’s as normal as it has always been, with one exception, and that was Inter. Let’s see the lineup tomorrow to see if you still think there’s an issue. I spoke to him today and I’m pleased to have him back.

“There was a time in the season when I opted not to play Mo and another where I decided not to include him in the squad. For all other matches, he has been available, and he was the first substitution against Brighton, so there has never been an issue for me.

“He went to AFCON and did what he usually does, scoring goals. I believe we’ve managed well in his absence by conceding few chances and starting to create more. His presence is incredibly beneficial. Only one player has scored more goals for this club, but I doubt I can still play Ian Rush.”

Liverpool is currently enjoying an 11-match unbeaten streak, although they have dropped points in the Premier League with some disappointing draws, the latest being against Burnley.

While a draw against Marseille would not be catastrophic, a win could elevate them to fourth place in the Champions League table and alleviate pressure for their upcoming league match against Qarabag next week.