Xabi Alonso's Next Job May Already Be Sorted as Liverpool Gets Key Update

Xabi Alonso's abrupt departure from Real Madrid has ignited speculation about his future, with Liverpool emerging as a prime destination amid Arne Slot's struggles at Anfield. The Spaniard left Los Blancos by mutual consent on January 11, 2026, just one day after a 3-2 Spanish Super Cup final loss to Barcelona, ending his 232-day tenure that began in May 2025 following his triumphant Bayer Leverkusen spell[2][4].

Alonso's exit stemmed from on-field disappointments and reported dressing room issues, yet his reputation remains intact after leading Leverkusen to an unbeaten Bundesliga title and domestic double in 2023/24[2][4]. Now, clubs are circling. Eintracht Frankfurt has made "first contacts" via chief executive Markus Krosche, who seeks a personal meeting, though Alonso is deemed too elite for the role post-Leverkusen dominance[2]. Other Bundesliga options like Edin Terzic or Marco Rose are more realistic for the German side[2].

In England, Liverpool links feel inevitable. Slot's Reds, 2024/25 Premier League champions, sit fourth after 22 games—14 points behind leaders Arsenal—following a 1-1 draw with Burnley that extended their 12-game unbeaten run but included six draws[4]. Out of the Carabao Cup and trailing in the title race, Liverpool eyes the FA Cup and Champions League, but Slot faces mounting pressure[2][3][4]. Alonso, a former Liverpool midfielder, was initially considered before Slot's 2024 appointment and holds an edge over rivals like Manchester United or Tottenham[3].

However, Alonso plans a break for "the next few months" before eyeing a Premier League return, ideally summer 2026, rebuffing mid-season offers[3][5]. He's "keen" on England's top flight, with Manchester City also admiring amid Pep Guardiola speculation[3]. Liverpool fans buzzed over unconfirmed sightings of Alonso in the city, though his wife posted from Spain[4]. As Slot's position wavers, Anfield could provide Alonso's next chapter, blending nostalgia and ambition.

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