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Simon Jordan Says Whether Arne Slot Should Be Replaced by Xabi Alonso at Liverpool
In the wake of Xabi Alonso's sudden departure from Real Madrid after just seven months, speculation has intensified about his potential return to Liverpool as a replacement for current manager Arne Slot. Pundit Simon Jordan addressed these rumors head-on, responding to claims that Liverpool should sack Slot and install Alonso at Anfield.[1][5]
Alonso was sacked by Real Madrid despite a respectable record of 24 wins in 34 games this season, boasting a 70.59% win percentage. His exit stemmed from internal conflicts, including his insistence on bringing his own fitness coach from Bayer Leverkusen, a former Barcelona and New York City FC staff member. This clashed with Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez's authority.[3][5]
Prior to joining Real Madrid, Alonso's stellar tenure at Leverkusen—where he led the team to an unbeaten Bundesliga title and the Europa League final—made him a prime candidate to succeed Jürgen Klopp at Liverpool. However, the job went to Slot, who inherited a strong squad and guided Liverpool to the top four this season.[3][6]
Despite Liverpool's solid position, some fans and callers on talk shows argue for ruthlessness, claiming Slot is "too calm" and lacks the fire to maximize the squad's potential, including young talents like Florian Wirtz. They praise Alonso's fresh ideas, Liverpool DNA from his playing days as a captain and legend, and ability to galvanize the team for a treble push.[6][7]
Simon Jordan, however, pours cold water on the idea of an immediate replacement. He emphasizes club intelligence and strategic patience, drawing parallels to Klopp's era. Jordan argues that Slot shouldn't be ousted prematurely, especially with Liverpool's ongoing title charge, FA Cup run, and Champions League hopes. He predicts Alonso could manage Liverpool "sooner rather than later" but not at Slot's expense now, urging fans to separate the player legend from the manager's credentials.[1][5][7]
Jordan also speculates on Alonso's other options, like Manchester United (post-Ruben Amorim) or even Chelsea under new boss Liam Rosenior, but stresses that top clubs demand managers who fit within their parameters without being "a pain in the ass."[3][5]
Ultimately, Jordan advises Liverpool to stick with Slot unless Champions League qualification falters, viewing Alonso as a long-term fit rather than a panic hire. Fan debates rage on, with calls for Alonso's homecoming clashing against Slot's recent success.[1][6]
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