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Xabi Alonso’s Odds of Becoming Rangers Manager Revealed After Real Madrid Departure
By Football Insider Staff | Published January 2026
Xabi Alonso's sudden departure from Real Madrid has sparked intense speculation about his next managerial role, with betting odds dramatically shifting across major clubs—though Rangers appears as a long-shot option amid the frenzy.[1][2]
Alonso, who took over at his former club Real Madrid last summer after Carlo Ancelotti's exit to Brazil, managed just 34 games, winning 24 despite early promise. Pressure mounted quickly at the Santiago Bernabéu, culminating in his sacking following a 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final.[1][3]
Bookmakers have slashed odds on Alonso returning to management swiftly, positioning him as the clear favorite for Liverpool's next manager at 1/1 with TalkSPORT Bet and Betano. This surge comes as Arne Slot's title defense has faltered, leaving Liverpool 14 points behind leaders Arsenal.[1][2][3]
Other frontrunners include Luis Enrique (2/1), Oliver Glasner (5/1), and a trio at 8/1: Jurgen Klopp, Steven Gerrard, and Andoni Iraola. Longer shots feature Simone Inzaghi (10/1), Cesc Fàbregas (14/1), and even Trent Alexander-Arnold at a playful 66/1.[1][2]
| Candidate | Odds | Bookmaker |
|---|---|---|
| Xabi Alonso | 1/1 | Betano |
| Luis Enrique | 2/1 | TalkSport Bet |
| Oliver Glasner | 5/1 | Betano |
| Jurgen Klopp | 8/1 | Puntit |
Broader next-job markets from Oddschecker list Liverpool at 5/4, ahead of Spain national team (11/2), Bayern Munich (15/2), and Manchester City (12/1). Despite his 71% win rate at Madrid, Alonso—highly rated per Fabrizio Romano—is eyed by European giants like Liverpool, Bayern, and City, who "won't hesitate" if opportunities arise.[3][4]
Notably, Rangers odds remain unlisted in major markets, hovering as outsiders amid Alonso's Premier League pull. The 44-year-old, who rejected Liverpool in 2024, is expected back soon.[3]
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