Alonso wasted no time choosing his new team after being linked with three Premier League clubs, revealing three factors behind his decision.
On 15 Jan 2026 GMT+7, Spanish media outlet Fichajes reported the latest on Xabi Alonso after he became the former coach of La Liga giant Real Madrid, following his dismissal earlier this Monday.
This has put Xabi Alonso under scrutiny regarding his next coaching destination, after making his name at Bayer Leverkusen by turning the club from relegation candidates in the 2022-23 season into unbeaten Bundesliga champions in 2023-24, also winning the DFB-Pokal and reaching the Europa League final.
Initially, the 44-year-old Alonso has been linked with several top Premier League clubs, including Manchester United, who are seeking a permanent manager after this season; Manchester City, looking for a successor if Pep Guardiola departs; and Liverpool, his former club as a player.
Most recently, sources revealed that Alonso is most interested in Liverpool and wants to manage the Reds in the future, as the managerial situation at Manchester City remains uncertain—Guardiola’s contract runs until 2027—and Manchester United is seen as having a chaotic project.
However, Liverpool sees Alonso as the leading candidate to replace Arne Slot. Although the Dutch coach has led the team on an 11-match unbeaten run, his style and approach have yet to impress Liverpool fans.
Meanwhile, Alonso believes Liverpool is the right destination for three reasons. According to sources, "Beyond emotional factors, Liverpool’s sporting project perfectly matches his philosophy."
"Liverpool’s core consists of young players with energy and high technical skills, many resembling those Alonso developed at Leverkusen. These players can control midfield, press intensely, and adapt to flexible systems."
"Moreover, Liverpool has a clear structure, a defined sporting direction, and an environment that protects the manager when results are unfavorable. This stability is crucial for a coach who believes in a medium-term process."
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