Former Liverpool Star Reveals Real Madrid Offer Moments Before Xabi Alonso Exit Confirmed

Xabi Alonso's sudden departure from Real Madrid has sent shockwaves through football, with fresh links to a Liverpool return emerging just hours before his exit was announced. On January 12, 2026, Real Madrid confirmed a "mutual agreement" to part ways with Alonso following a 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Supercopa de España final, less than 24 hours after the loss.[1][3]

Reserve team manager and former Real Madrid right-back Álvaro Arbeloa was swiftly appointed as his replacement.[1] The move surprised many, including Jürgen Klopp, who dismissed any involvement on his part, stating his phone hadn't rung from Madrid and expressing sympathy for Alonso. Klopp highlighted the immense pressures at Real Madrid, noting Alonso's challenges succeeding Carlo Ancelotti and implementing new rules amid early rumors of squad discord.[2]

Alonso, who made 210 appearances for Liverpool as a player, has been heavily linked with a managerial return to Anfield. Despite Arne Slot's side being unbeaten in 11 matches and cooling talk of his exit, betting odds list Alonso at 1/1 to become Liverpool's next permanent manager.[1] Speculation intensified with reports of player power issues, including tensions with stars like Mbappé, despite Real Madrid trailing league leaders Barcelona by just four points.[4][1]

In a post-exit statement, Alonso expressed regret, saying, "I did my best," reflecting on his short tenure after only half a year in charge.[3] Meanwhile, journalist David Ornstein provided Liverpool transfer updates amid the chaos: the club has no plans to sign cover for injured players like Alexander Isak, Giovanni Leoni, and Conor Bradley, relying instead on Joe Gomez, Curtis Jones, and Dominik Szoboszlai in defense. Updates on Ibrahima Konaté's contract and Mohamed Salah's future—potentially staying until 2026/27 or leaving—add to the intrigue.[1]

Klopp praised Alonso's talent, predicting future success, but doubted an immediate move, saying he wouldn't jump straight to another job.[2] As Madrid-based media buzzes, all eyes are on Alonso's next step, with Liverpool fans dreaming of a homecoming.[1][4]

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