Liverpool FC have reportedly reached out to Real Madrid to investigate Xabi Alonso's troubled managerial tenure at the Spanish club, according to Spanish newspaper AS. The Merseyside outfit is considering whether the former midfielder could replace current boss Arne Slot, but first wants clarity on why his stint at the Bernabéu ended so badly.
Slot remains under contract until 2027, but Liverpool's season has unraveled dramatically. After winning the Premier League title comfortably in his debut campaign, the club has crashed out of the Champions League, FA Cup, and League Cup at early stages. Currently sitting fourth in the league, 20 points behind Arsenal, the club faces mounting pressure as supporters and media question Slot's tactical approach and squad management.
The Real Madrid Red Flag
Alonso's Real Madrid experience offers a cautionary tale. During his brief spell, the Spanish tactician managed to deeply fracture the squad's harmony. Vinicius Junior and Fede Valverde publicly criticised his methods, particularly his intensive tactical sessions and video analysis work. The Brazilian winger's status under Alonso never matched what he enjoyed under former coach Carlo Ancelotti, creating obvious tension.
The dressing room divide became increasingly visible by October. While some players backed Alonso's vision to modernise the system, others openly resisted. Reports suggest certain players even pretended to sleep during tactical meetings or ignored him while he spoke. The disrespect escalated tensions so severely that Alonso allegedly snapped: "I didn't realise I'd walked into a nursery here."
Liverpool's inquiry signals hesitation about appointing a manager whose previous elite-level role ended in dysfunction. Though Alonso remains an attractive prospect given his tactical acumen and playing pedigree, his Madrid experience has raised legitimate questions about his ability to manage world-class athletes with strong personalities. The club must weigh whether their current crisis warrants such a gamble on an unproven Premier League manager.
