Liverpool Linked with Xabi Alonso After Shock Real Madrid Exit

Real Madrid confirmed Xabi Alonso's departure as manager less than 24 hours after a 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Supercopa de España, reaching a mutual agreement with the Spaniard.[1][5] Reserve team manager and former Real Madrid right-back Alvaro Arbeloa, a ex-Liverpool teammate of Alonso, has taken over the role.[1][5]

The bombshell exit has sparked intense speculation linking Alonso back to Liverpool, where he made 210 appearances as a player. Odds place him at 1/1 to become the next permanent manager of the Premier League champions, despite Arne Slot's side remaining unbeaten in 11 matches.[1] Links also extend to Manchester United, but Anfield remains a strong contender as long as Alonso is jobless.

Jürgen Klopp, now head of global soccer at Red Bull, dismissed any involvement in Alonso's sacking, stating he received no calls from Madrid and the decision had "nothing to do with me."[2][4] The former Liverpool boss praised Alonso as a "very talented coach" but noted challenges succeeding Carlo Ancelotti's legendary tenure, with early rumors of squad discord. Klopp expressed sympathy, confident in Alonso's future success, and doubted an immediate move to Liverpool.[2]

Amid transfer talk, David Ornstein reported Liverpool's January plans: no signings to cover injuries to Alexander Isak, Giovanni Leoni, and Conor Bradley, with Joe Gomez, Curtis Jones, and Dominik Szoboszlai deputizing in defense.[1] Updates on Ibrahima Konaté's contract and Mohamed Salah's future suggest Salah could stay until his 2026/27 deal expires, with a positive outlook on his commitment.[1][3]

This shock development reignites dreams of Alonso's Anfield return, blending nostalgia with Liverpool's stable present.[1][2]