Liverpool faces an uncertain summer after a dramatic collapse in form has left manager Arne Slot under intense scrutiny despite winning the Premier League title in his first season. A 1-1 draw against Chelsea on Saturday, which saw Enzo Fernandez cancel out Ryan Gravenberch's opener, extended the Reds' winless run and drew boos from frustrated Anfield supporters.
The club now requires just one victory from their final two matches—away at Aston Villa and at home to Brentford—to secure Champions League football for next season. However, the manner of their recent performances has triggered serious questions about Slot's tactical approach and player management. The substitution of teenage talent Rio Ngumoha during the second half particularly angered sections of the fanbase, as the young winger appeared to be Liverpool's most dangerous attacking outlet throughout the contest.
The Alonso Speculation and FSG's Dilemma
Television pundit Joe Cole openly acknowledged what many supporters have been thinking: Xabi Alonso remains available and represents an alternative managerial option. Cole noted that Alonso's success at Bayer Leverkusen—where he guided the German side to their first Bundesliga title in 2023-24—demonstrates his proven capability at the highest level. "Xabi Alonso is there, and this place would light up again with him in the hotseat," Cole suggested, though he stopped short of calling for Slot's immediate removal.
Despite the negativity, Liverpool's ownership structure under Fenway Sports Group typically favours stability and patience with managers. Slot's maiden season delivered a Premier League title—a drought-breaking achievement for the club—but the current campaign has exposed significant vulnerabilities. The departure of key attacking players including Darwin Nunez, Luis Diaz, and Diogo Jota has decimated Liverpool's goal-scoring firepower, while injuries and integration issues have plagued summer signings Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz.
What Comes Next for the Reds
Peter Crouch, a former Liverpool player turned pundit, characterised the club as standing "at a crossroads" and predicted an "inquest" into the season's trajectory. Crouch acknowledged that Slot has previously demonstrated championship-winning credentials but stressed that "big improvements" must follow next term. The departure of ageing stalwarts like Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson, combined with Virgil van Dijk's advancing years, signals a generational shift that will define Liverpool's next competitive cycle.
Liverpool's final weeks will prove decisive. Securing Champions League qualification represents a minimum requirement, yet it may not be enough to fully silence the growing doubts surrounding Slot's tenure. The summer transfer window and tactical refinements will reveal whether FSG intends to back their manager or pursue fresh direction—and whether Alonso's availability becomes more than mere speculation.
